Roanoke Valley HOPE Initiative announced to combat drug addiction

ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - A program created to assist people with addictions and find professional help is set to begin in August.

The Roanoke Valley HOPE Initiative (RVHI) is designed to provide a gateway to professional resources for people suffering with substance use disorders (SUDs) within the greater Roanoke area.

The program is also designed to spread awareness about the opioid problems facing the community.

RVHI will act as a pathway for the community to learn about and access substance abuse services. It consists of volunteers (Angels), the Roanoke Police Department and civilian partners who will hold monthly meetings, called "Drop-ins" for people with SUDs, where they can learn about professional health services, as well as turn in any drugs or paraphernalia they may have on them.

The drop-ins will take place at the Bradley Free Clinic on the second Monday of each month, starting August 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Roanoke Police Department will accept walk-ins and will link them with Angels Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

At the drop-in site, a sworn officer will be present to do warrant checks and assist with completion of participant forms to be signed. If you have an active arrest warrant, you will be served. If you are considered unsafe, or if you are unable to benefit due to being high, drunk, or psychotic, you will not be admitted into the program. Drugs or drug equipment will be turned over to a sworn officer. Once documented, the officer will properly dispose of these items.

After a brief screening, the participant will be matched with the following services that best meet their needs:

  • Medical detoxification
  • Residential treatment
  • Inpatient/Outpatient mental health services
  • Outpatient services
  • Training on the proper use of nasal Naloxone

Ongoing community efforts are being made to increase affordable resources that cover the full spectrum of necessary care. Service availability may depend on insurance coverage.

Roanoke City HOPE initiative to combat substance abuse.

Posted by Rachel Lucas on Thursday, July 21, 2016