GCASA will host meeting July 13 on opioid epidemic

ALBION – The opioid epidemic has reached Orleans County with several recent deaths from heroin overdoses, according to the Genesee-Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse.

The issue has been in the news throughout the region, state and country due to the increase in overdose deaths. In nearby Erie County, the community is on pace to have 500 people die from overdose deaths this year.

GCASA wants to educate Orleans County about the crisis and give insight and help to parents and friends of people struggling with addiction.

GCASA on July 13 will host an informational meeting and Narcan training for the community at GCASA’s Albion Clinic, 249 East Ave. The 7 to 9 p.m. meeting will be in the basement level of the clinic.

“People are struggling out here in our community,” said Kathy Hodgins, director of treatment services for GCASA in Orleans County. “It’s not just the other communities.”

The July 13 session will be include information about treatment options for people who suffer from opioid addiction. Topics will include detox, inpatient and outpatient treatment options, medication assisted therapy options, and community resources.

In addition, Narcan training will be provided and each participant will receive a kit to use in case of an opioid overdose. Narcan can bring someone out of an addicted state, Hodgins said.

This is the first time GCASA is leading a community meeting about the opioid epidemic. Hodgins said GCASA can help people wrestling with addictions, and also provide some support for their families and friends.

“We need to get the word out in our community about what GCASA offers,” Hodgins said.