ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - A program created to help people with addictions find professional help is officially underway.
The Roanoke Valley Hope Initiative is designed to provide a gateway to professional resources for people with substance use disorders.
There are monthly meetings for people to learn about professional health services and turn in any drugs or paraphernalia they may have.
A total of 10 people participated in Monday's drop-in session, eight women and two men.
"We weren't really expecting anybody to come in today, but we've been real fortunate to have four or five people come in right off the bat," said Lt. Bill Breedlove, of the Roanoke Police Department.
The drop-ins take place at the Bradley Free Clinic on the second Monday of each month from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The HOPE Initiative also aims to spread awareness about the opioid problem facing the community.