Substance Use Disorder is one of the most serious threats facing our society today. It is the single largest killer and the numbers are rising.
Hope Recovery Center was established as a nonprofit organization in the State of Washington in September 2015 by Jeremiah Saucier, CDP and a grass roots community group as they witnessed an increasing number of residents becoming chemically dependent in their peaceful rural community on the Key Peninsula in northwest Pierce County, Washington. The disease of substance use disorder had developed a crushing grip on individuals, both young and old, male and female, regardless of economic status. Few resources exist in or near this small community to combat the disease, yet Mr. Saucier and a team of community stakeholders persisted to engage and educate the broader community about the challenges and unmet needs of those who experience the disease of substance use disorders.
Compelling Evidence Supports the Need
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a medical problem. And, there are treatments that work. Yet, so many people die or fail to recover from this devastating illness as a result of access to appropriate services due to geographical and transportation challenges, lack of insurance or income sources to cover the cost of treatment, and unwillingness of insurance companies to pay for the length of treatment that many individuals require. The need for SUD treatment and supportive services has grown exponentially in recent years, as illustrated by the pie chart below, and is also reflected in the excessive waiting periods for people who are desperate and ready for treatment but find there are no slots available, and “cookie cutter” programs fail to recognize the unique needs of each individual that must be met in order for the “whole” person to adapt to societal norms.
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