A substance abuse programme hard-hit by funding cuts has appealed to the community for financial support.“Our dilemma at present is that we have not been able to secure funding for our programmes, which cost us approximately $500,000 per annum,” said Focus Counselling Services Executive Director Sandy Butterfield.Focus targets the Island’s needy, many of whom are homeless and lack jobs, with a treatment programme and residency. The charity also offers a 24 hour hotline and drug screening.“Our motive is that if these persons are with us eight hours per day, seven days per week, that they are not likely to be engaging in negative activity for that many hours of the day,” Ms Butterfield said. “We’re hoping that this harm reduction component will help in the reduction of some crime in our community.”In order to keep its residency programme afloat, however, Focus has been forced to cut staff hours.Ms Butterfield said LOM Securities (Bermuda) Limited investment advisor Mark Jennings has joined with Focus to help organise fundraising events to address its budget shortfall..Prospective donors are asked to contact Ms Butterfield, at 532-1292.