Families who have found recovery, those who seek it for a loved one and families who lost the battle were among the group who attended the North East Recovery Town Hall at St. Mary Anne’s Episcopal Church parish house on Wednesday, August 8, 2018.  Voices of Hope planned and invited the community to attend.

“We never know who will show up.” said Jennifer Tuerke, President of the Board of Directors of Voices of Hope, Inc.   “We just set the date and invite everyone:  treatment providers, recovery supporters, people who seek recovery and those who have found it.  We want to bring the resources to the people, offer and listen to solutions, but most importantly, to build relationships.  Active and caring relationships are what makes a community whole and healthy.   We believe that, with our limited resources, it is our best defense against what is happening in our community”

Two people who are seeking Senator seats were in attendance.  Two area treatment providers were present:  Ashley Addiction Treatment and the Alcohol & Drug Recovery Center (ADRC) from the Cecil County Health Department.  Pastor Phil Meekins represented Monarch Recovery Ministries halfway houses and some of the women residents of the Amy House were present.  Father John Schaeffer of St. Mary Anne’s Episcopal Church talked about the 12-Step Recovery Church Service there on the second Sunday of each month and the food provided to those in need twice a week.  Many people in recovery attended as well as family members whose children are in recovery.  Some were seeking treatment and recovery supports for a loved one.  A grieving mother was attending the Recovery Town Hall before the Healing Hearts Overdose Death Grief Support Group meeting across the street later that night.  She shared a brief introduction which brought many to tears.

Voices of Hope presented how people can get involved in helping and healing our community by attending the Recovery Volunteer Army training on August 25, 2018 from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm at the Susquehanna Workforce Center in Elkton.  Information about treatment and recovery supports in Cecil County will be shared, and how to access them.  Training will also cover harm reduction principles and trauma informed care.  After completing this training, one can decide to join an Outreach Team or just take the information home with them.

5 people were Narcan trained by ADRC at this event.  Amazing donuts and coffee was provided by the Chesapeake Bay Coffee Company in North East.  Thank you to all who participated – you make a difference!