Stories shine light on need for funding

Your two-part series on heroin ("Heroin's heartache: Four suburban friends tried it; two died," Dec. 17 and "It's up to the parents," Dec. 18) is a tribute to the Daily Herald's continuing commitment to in-depth reporting at a time when newspaper journalism is on the decline.

Additionally, the series highlights the critical need for drug prevention and treatment at a time when our state's ability to provide for them is being demolished.

State funding for drug treatment was cut 22 percent this year, and no relief is on the horizon. Unless we all recognize the stealth nature of addictive substances, and until our policymakers consistently fund the social and health services that are proven to work, we will continue to mourn the loss of children gone too soon.

Pamela F. Rodriguez

Elk Grove Village

President, Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities

Chicago