There is much work ahead, but positive action in the local fight against the opioid epidemic is taking place. That was the message delivered during Wednesday night’s Alliance for Substance Abuse Progress in Bartholomew County first annual report. Jeff Jones is the executive lead for ASAP.
Jones says the theme going forward is “We Know. We Can.”
As for what’s next for ASAP…
Columbus Mayor Jim Lienhoop was one of several local officials in attendance. He says the work done since ASAP was established was evident.
Carl Lienhoop, county commissioner, says that the partnerships established will only aid in the fight. He says the commissioners’ recent agreement to partner with the city and Columbus Regional Health will prove this to be the case.
Highlights of Wednesday night’s presentation included the announcement of “Project Prevent,” a grant-based program focused on drug prevention. The program is aimed at getting money to not-for-profit groups for programming to prevent drug abuse, particularly among school-age children. Much of that funding is expected to come from the Mark and Wendy Elwood Fund. The husband and wife donated $500,000 to the fight after that amount was matched by the community in less than five months.
Other components discussed include the opening of a “Fresh Start Recovery” center in Bartholomew County. This is aimed at helping addicted mothers and their children. Organizers say the new facility will be able to house and support up to 23 women and two of their children. Another program, “Projects in Progress,” was announced in October and is an addiction medicine specialty clinic within Columbus Regional Health aimed at helping addicts get get clean through the use of approved medicines. Organizers say the goal is for both components to be up and running within one year.
For more on the Alliance for Substance Abuse Progress in Bartholomew County, visit asapbc.org.