Four counties have been added to the growing list of Recovery Ready Communities in the Commonwealth. Bell, LaRue, Marion, and Washington counties are now certified, bringing the total number of Recovery Ready Communities to 25.
Almost 71,000 Kentuckians now have access to employment services, housing, and treatment options for people in recovery. David Daugherty is the Marion County Judge Executive. He said ensuring second chance employment was a goal of his community.
“We understand that securing a good job is essential for those returning from addiction treatment programs or individuals re-entering society after involvement with the justice system. This is why we fought hard to keep our career center open in Marion County,” said Daugherty.
Governor Andy Beshear said the goal of making all 120 counties Recovery Ready Communities is getting nearer.
“It should be a testament to the efforts that people have been making for over a decade to fight an epidemic that used to look insurmountable. But I hope this gives us hope that we can end it in our lifetime because it arose in our lifetime,” said Beshear.
Beshear said the work the state has been doing over the years is impacting on the total number of overdose deaths. Drug related deaths declined by over 30% last year. To be considered Recovery Ready, communities must offer services in all three aspects of the recovery process: prevention, treatment, and recovery support.