"In a faded old 1920's house in Perth's southern suburbs, a group of young women cram on to a couple of overworked couches.

The youngest in the group is 13. Like housemates everywhere, they share the domestic burden of household chores and squabble over television channels.
But unlike other households, these girls have another burden - an often chilling past. Most have been the victim of drug abuse and some have led lives battered by prostitution, child abuse and mental health problems. They also share a fledgling Christian faith. They have come to the drug rehabilitation program at Esther Elizabeth House from the courts and detention centers. Some have been referred by government departments. Patricia Walters, rehabilitation coordinator at the house, says the group is part of a Christian-based program which aims to help young women in crisis get back into the community.

Formed seven years under the name Living Hope, it is funded by donations and comes under the banner of George O'Neil's Australian Medical Procedures Research Foundation. The house is run by seven full-time staff and 12 volunteers. "We have never had any government funding," Mrs. Walters says. "We found if we did there was a huge amount of rules and restrictions which applied."

Ms Walters says hundreds of women have used the program over the years, staying from six weeks up to 2 years. The program claims a 60 per cent success rate in helping young women return drug-free to the community to work or study and lead normal lives.

"We tell them they don't have to be Christian or have faith but the program is Bible-based," she said. "They come with more curiosity than resistance." The house, which can accommodate 10 residents, operates on a strict regime. The girls are up by 7.30 am and are running soon after. Then it's breakfast and chores before sessions in life skills to learn how to fit into the community.

Girls have access to counselors, a psychologist and correspondence education. They do Bible study, are encouraged to join church youth groups, and go to church on Sundays.

The group can also study Spanish, art, music and basketball as well as going on outings to the movies, bowling or for hikes in the hills.

Mrs. Walters says the house is full. Lack of funding prevents the house expanding to a property next door. Details on the program are available from Ms Walters on 0411794525."

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West Australian Newspapers.