The streets of Amsterdam are being cleaned up by alcoholics that were causing trouble in the local park. The Rainbow Foundation has decided to put these addicts to work, and pay them in beer. The government is funding their workday with two beers when they begin work at 9 am, two beers with a hot lunch, and an additional beer along with 10 euros when they finish the day at 3:30 pm. The Foundation stands behind this undertaking, stating that these people are being given structure and keeping them busy, which means they will ultimately drink less. There are mixed comments from some of the men working. One said that he leaves and uses the money to buy more beer to drink the rest of the day. Another said that after a busy, productive day, he has no need for more alcohol. This is quite unconventional, but will it really help with their addiction, or is the government just exploiting their addiction to get the city clean?
Dr. Cali Estes - The Addictions Academy ®