Poughkeepsie...The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) announced today a public forum on April 20 to discuss service needs for individuals with chemical dependency. The forum will take place from 4-6 pm in the Training Room at DBCH at 230 North Road in Poughkeepsie.
“We urge the public to come to the forum and talk about what services are needed in our community to help those struggling each and every day with addiction,” said Margaret Hirst, LCSW-R, Acting Commissioner of the Department of Behavioral & Community Health. “With the unprecedented increase in overdose and overdose-related deaths in our county and throughout the nation, the need for collaboration, conversation, and action has never been greater.”
Families and caregivers are especially encouraged to participate in the forum to provide input about what services are needed to help shape the 2018 Local Services Plan for Individuals with Chemical Dependency. For those unable to attend, or who do not feel comfortable speaking in public, the Department welcomes written comments to be read to those in attendance. Individuals may submit comments online at DutchessNY.gov/ForumComments, may fax comments to (845) 485-2759, or mail to: Chemical Dependency Public Forum, 230 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.
The public forum is one of Dutchess County’s many efforts to address the public health crisis of substance abuse, in particular, opioid and heroin addiction. In addition to expanding its prescription medication take-back program and medication-assisted treatment programming, the County offers ongoing training in crisis intervention, mental health first aid, and naloxone administration.
Additionally, Dutchess County opened the Stabilization Center at 230 North Road in Poughkeepsie earlier this year. Offering a single point of service, this voluntary 24/7 resource supports adults, youth, and families who are dealing with behavioral health or substance use issues, and enables them to receive immediate and appropriate assistance, as well as connects them with ongoing support.
The public forum on April 20 is sponsored by the Chemical Dependency Subcommittee of the Dutchess County Mental Hygiene Board. For more information, please call (845) 486-2751.