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About Us
The Salvation Army is helping to eliminate the number one health problem in Alaska–alcohol and drug abuse and addiction. As Alaskans, we spend over $615,000,000 per year on drug-and alcohol-related problems. There are very few Alaskans who have not been affected by a tragedy related to alcohol.
How could alcohol and other drug abuse cost Alaskans $615,000,000 per year? It is estimated that at least 9.7 percent or 41,000 Alaskans are addicted to alcohol. Another 5,000 residents are dependent on drugs. These individuals suffer from the disease of addiction. This disease results in $319 million per year in lost productivity. We spend $146 million in costs for criminal justice and protective services. We spend an additional $123 million in health care due to addictions, as well as $21 million on traffic accidents and $4 million on public assistance.
 In an attempt to curb the devastation of alcoholism, Major Cyril Clitheroe of The Salvation Army started the first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting in an Anchorage garage in 1947. After many years of service to alcoholics in Anchorage, the Clitheroe Center received its first state grant in 1976. Since 1976, the program has grown from these humble beginnings to become the largest, most comprehensive treatment facility in Alaska. Upholding Major Clitheroe’s original goal to care for Alaska’s most vulnerable residents, the Clitheroe Center provides prevention services as well as assessments, outpatient, residential and dual diagnosis treatment.
In 2004, the Clitheroe Center served over 1,600 people from rural and urban Alaska. Recognized as one of the state’s preeminent dual diagnosis programs, the Clitheroe Center offers hope and treatment to individuals with drug and alcohol addiction and mental illness. The Clitheroe Center is at the forefront of the state of Alaska’s behavioral health integration efforts.
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