Thursday, February 9, 2017

S.A.F.E. Community Coalition Update - February 2017



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S.A.F.E. Resource Line: (508) 488-8105

Overdose fatalities continue to climb

The Opioid epidemic continues to claim lives at an alarming rate.  In 2016 Norfolk County saw 172 fatalities, up from 163 In 2015.

In an effort to keep the public informed as to the severity of this epidemic in our community, the Franklin Police Department has initiated a new on-line Opioid Overdose tracking report which you can view by clicking here.

This report shows that in 2016 there there were 58 overdoses in Franklin with 9 suspected fatalities (pending confirmation by medical examiner).  In 2017 year to date the Franklin site reports 5 overdoses with no fatalities.

"The opioid epidemic affects every community in this nation including Franklin and the surrounding area," said James A. Mill, Deputy Chief of Police Franklin Police Department. "It is a complex problem that requires a comprehensive effort from all members of the community. The Franklin Police are thankful for the partnership we have developed with the S.A.F.E. Coalition in providing support and resources."

Mills also noted that Franklin officers have been able to direct those in need to the SAFE Resource Support Line at 508-488-8105.  The S.A.F.E. Coalition will continue to work with our police departments, first responders, schools and civic organizations to educate, reduce stigma and  help people access treatment. We will also continue to provide supportive services to the families impacted by Substance Use Disorder.

There are a number of ways for you to become involved. Come out to one of the programs we have listed below and join the community conversation.  Become trained on how to use Narcan so that you will be prepared to save a life.  Or join us in any way that fits your schedule!  S.A.F.E. needs always needs more volunteers. There are plenty of ways to become involved. Call us at 508-488-8105 or email info@safecoalitionma.com for more information.

NARCAN and CPR training available

The S.A.F.E. Coalition, in association with the Franklin Fire Department, Franklin Police Department and BAMSI (Brockton Area Multi-Services Inc.) will present a Free Narcan and CPR ("Hands Only") Training Session on Wednesday February 15, 2017 at 4:00 – 8:00 pm at the Franklin Fire Department Headquarters, 40 West Central Street, Franklin MA. The public is invited.

The 'Drop-In' Narcan Training Session will be ongoing from 4:00-8:00 pm with no reservation necessary. Narcan will be distributed at no charge after the training session.

"Overdose deaths caused by heroin and synthetic opioids have reached an all-time high," said Franklin Police Chief T.J. Lynch. "Naloxone, commonly referred to by the brand name Narcan, has been proven to save lives by reversing the effects of opioids. Anyone with minimal training can learn how to administer naloxone and save the life of an individual experiencing an opioid-related overdose."  


S.A.F.E. support line launch a success


For Access to Treatment and Support Call (508)-488-8105

The SAFE Resource phone line was established to assist in locating treatment, supportive services and resources for those impacted by Substance Use Disorder. To date, this service has provided assistance to 54 people in our community.

The phone line is manned by trained volunteers and provides assistance with:
  • Locating treatment for Substance Use Disorder including Detoxification, In- and Out-patient Rehabilitation, Halfway Houses and Sober Homes
  • Providing Referrals to counselors for psychiatric assessments and therapeutic treatment for Substance Use      Disorder 
  • Utilizing Massachusetts General Law Section 12 (Mental Health) and Section 35 (Substance Abuse) for involuntary commitment 
  • Understanding MassHealth Insurance benefits
  • Obtaining NARCAN / NARCAN training - NARCAN is an opioid overdose reversal drug
  •  Local Support for families and loved ones
The S.A.F.E. Resource Line is answered between the hours of 9:00 a.m. ad 9:00 P.M. seven days per week.  Off hour calls will go to voicemail and be returned the following day.  In the case of an emergency, call 911.

Support Meeting Schedule

Healing Hearts Community Support Group
Every Thursday
7:00-8:00pm
2nd floor of the Franklin YMCA
T: (508) 570-6996
E: Healingheartscircle@gmail.com

Learn to Cope, Franklin Chapter
Meets Monday nights 7:00-8:30
Unitarian Universalist Church
262 Chestnut Street
Franklin, MA
Contact: Kathy Getchell
T: (774)893-3878
E: kathyg17@verizon.net
www.learn2cope.com

Road to Recovery
Meets Wednesday nights 7:00-8:30
Milford Regional Medical Center
Main Building Conference Room C
Contact: Katie Truitt
T: (774)248-4526
E: ktruitt3@gmail.com
S.A.F.E. is a coalition of community partners who have come together to provide support, education, treatment options, and coping mechanisms for those affected by substance abuse disorder. We do so by empowering those affected, including their families, with the tools necessary to succeed on their journey to recovery. We understand that while I can't, we can.
 

Copyright © 2017 Jeffrey.Roy@MAHouse.gov, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you expressed an interest in joining the fight against opioid abuse in our community.

Our mailing address is:
Jeffrey.Roy@MAHouse.gov
State House - Room 527A
Boston, MA 02133


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