dream of a drug treatment centre for women into a reality.

Fair Havens will be the first residential treatment centre of its kind in Bermuda.

Yesterday Ms Patricia Lynn, president of the Fair Havens Christian Care Association, revealed the estimated annual budget for the centre was up to $300,000.

And she appealed to local businesses to back the unique venture.

She told Hamilton Rotary Club yesterday: "We are actively seeking the financial support required to make Fair Havens an ongoing reality.

"Hamilton Rotarians, Fair Havens needs your support. Individually and collectively, you are in a position to help us.

"Through this wonderful service organisation, through the companies you represent, and as good citizens of our community, I ask you today to adopt Fair Havens and help us open our doors.'' Government had already committed $250,000 towards the centre at the corner of Court Street and Victoria Street, said Ms Lynn.

Around $40,000 also came through the Bermuda end to end walk, and a benefit concert in memory of Deborah Lee Robinson, whose body was found floating off North Shore, Pembroke, last July.

It is hoped Fair Havens will open in early spring next year, said Ms Lynn, whose own family has been touched by the drug problem.

"I, like many of you, never could have believed that the underworld of drugs could have invaded and possibly threatened to destroy the harmony and peace within my own family.'' The centre will provide medical care, counselling, training and fellowship, said Ms Lynn.

It will accommodate up to 12 women for as long as 10 months.

Ms Lynn said the centre will have three full time staff, including a highly qualified executive director responsible for overall management, a senior chemical dependency counsellor and a counsellor in training.