A Decade of Change and Progress: The Inspiring Journey of Parkwood Matrix® Treatment Site - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

A Decade of Change and Progress: The Inspiring Journey of Parkwood Matrix® Treatment Site

2 mins read
s u

A Beacon of Hope: Celebrating Success at Kensington Civic Centre

In an ongoing battle against substance abuse, cities worldwide have grappled with the challenges posed by addiction and its devastating impact on individuals, families, and communities. Ten years ago, Cape Town’s Parkwood Matrix® treatment site pledged to address this pressing issue by offering comprehensive support and treatment to those in need. The program’s accomplishments were evident as nearly 300 clients recently celebrated their progress at a certification ceremony held at the Kensington Civic Centre.

At the heart of the City’s Health Substance Abuse Programme lies the Matrix® Model of Intensive Outpatient Treatment, a research-supported rehabilitation program designed for individuals over 18. This program has provided a multitude of treatment options at eight locations across the metropole. In the previous fiscal year alone, 2,384 clients took part in the program, with an impressive 85% clean drug test rate.

Since its humble beginnings in 2008 as the first Matrix site in Tafelsig, the program has expanded to include locations such as Albow Gardens, Delft South, Town 2, Khayelitsha, Parkwood, Ruimte Road in Manenberg, and Scottsdene in Eerste River. Among these sites, Parkwood Matrix® has emerged as a leader, boasting a remarkable 88% clean drug test rate and assisting 317 clients in the last financial year.

Breaking Boundaries: Parkwood’s Innovative Approach to Comprehensive Care

The Parkwood site has consistently pushed the envelope, becoming the first to offer services to individuals living on the streets and clients referred from shelters. Additionally, it has established a comprehensive care model by ensuring clients aren’t only screened for TB but also tested for HIV and other lifestyle diseases such as cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes.

A key factor in Parkwood’s success is its fruitful collaboration with U-turn, an organization that prepares clients for treatment while subsidizing transport and shelter fees during the Matrix® program. These efforts have resulted in a high number of clients completing their treatment.

The certification ceremony at the Kensington Civic Centre represented a significant moment of recognition and hope for clients, their families, and the entire community. Among the awardees, 146 clients received certificates for completing one month in the program, 60 clients for finishing the four-month program, 34 clients for their ongoing involvement, 57 clients who completed individualized programs, and one family member for their unwavering support throughout.

The Ripple Effect: Inspiring Change and Resilience

Councillor Patricia van der Ross, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, underscored the broader implications of the program’s success. She stressed the importance of continued care after treatment, praising the staff and former clients’ supportive roles in helping individuals transition back to a healthier lifestyle.

The milestones achieved by the Parkwood Matrix® treatment site over the past decade stand as a testament to the resilience and determination of those grappling with addiction. As the site forges ahead, it is hoped that the message of support, transformation, and recovery will continue to resonate throughout the community, encouraging more individuals to seek help and improve their lives.

In conclusion, the Parkwood Matrix® treatment site’s 10-year journey exemplifies the power of collaboration, innovation, and unwavering efforts to confront substance abuse. The program’s accomplishments not only offer a glimmer of hope for those battling addiction but also establish a benchmark for similar initiatives worldwide. As Parkwood Matrix® continues to evolve, its resounding success will undoubtedly inspire countless individuals to embark on their paths to recovery and a brighter future.

Previous Story

Discovering Cape Town Through a Groundbreaking Virtual Experience

Next Story

A Leap Towards Progress: Including Children in the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide

Latest from Blog

The Debate Over Starlink’s Entry into South Africa: Technological Potential vs. Regulatory Hurdles

The entry of Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, into South Africa is facing tough challenges due to local laws that require foreign companies to partner with local investors. Critics argue that these rules slow down internet access, especially in rural areas. Supporters, like former politician Tony Leon, believe that easing these regulations could boost technology and improve relations with the U.S. However, Starlink recently withdrew its application to operate in the country, raising concerns about how South Africa can attract foreign investment while addressing historical inequalities. This debate highlights the struggle between supporting local interests and embracing new technology for a better future.

Unmasking the Veil: The Hidden Campaign of the Trump Administration

The Trump administration’s costcutting efforts, led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), are shrouded in mystery, raising alarms about honesty in government. With major cuts to global aid, especially in health and education, trust in the administration is fading. Many worry that the figures reported as savings are misleading, and the lack of detailed information on contracts only adds to the confusion. As legal battles unfold, the need for clear communication and accountability becomes even more urgent, reminding us that open governance is crucial for public confidence.

Major Supermarkets Recall Heartland Foods Cereals: A Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

Major supermarket chains like Shoprite and Checkers are recalling Heartland Foods cereals because some labels had wrong nutritional information. Even though they didn’t get any complaints, they want to be honest and keep customers safe. Shoppers can easily return the affected cereals for a full refund, no receipt needed! This recall shows how much these stores care about their customers and keeping food safe.

The South African Housing Market: A Journey Through Economic Terrain

The South African housing market is a tale of two cities. Cape Town’s home prices have shot up by 25%, attracting many buyers despite the rising cost of living, while Johannesburg’s prices have climbed more modestly at 12%, making it a tempting option for those seeking better economic stability. Many people are reconsidering where to live, with some returning to Johannesburg for a sense of comfort and affordability. As economic pressures weigh heavily, both cities tell a story of resilience and adaptation as South Africans navigate their changing world, searching for a place they can call home.

Cape Town’s ‘Invested in Hope’ Budget: A Vision for the Future

Cape Town’s ‘Invested in Hope’ Budget for 2025/26 is a big plan to help the city and its people. With R39.7 billion set aside, the budget focuses on making essential services like water and electricity more affordable for lowerincome families. Mayor Geordin HillLewis shared this vision on a sunny morning, aiming to improve community safety by adding more police officers and reshaping the city’s infrastructure. While some celebrate these changes, others express concerns about added costs and the need for better crime prevention. Overall, this budget hopes to pave the way for a brighter future for all Cape Town residents.