The Substance-Use Program at The Center for Counseling & Consultation recently received a big boost, thanks to a grant from the Foundation for Opioid Response Efforts (FORE).
The $150,000 gift supports the local program as it expands its care and treatment for opioid and substance use.
“I think it is fantastic that a foundation in New York acknowledges that the need for opioid-use treatment reaches far beyond its home state,” said Wendy Lockwood, The Center’s chief operating officer who applied for the grant. “Providing funds across multiple states demonstrates the reality that opioid-use disorder can impact anyone, anywhere.”
FORE granted funds to programs in seven states. (See related story.)
“The prevalence of people seeking treatment for opioid-use disorder, or any other behavioral-health issue, varies depending on demographics,” Lockwood said. “However, it is very important to note that opioid-use disorder may affect anyone regardless of age, race or social status.”
Awareness of this issue tends to be higher in metropolitan areas and along both coasts, Lockwood indicated, noting news outlets regularly report on the crisis in New York and California.
“Those living in the Midwest and particularly in rural areas tend to be less aware of the crisis in our own communities – until it impacts them, or their family or friends,” Lockwood commented. “But regardless of geography, it is important to address access to care and treatment.
“The Center greatly appreciates this opportunity to partner with FORE,” she added. “It allows us to enhance access to opioid- and substance-use treatment for central Kansas residents.”
Kevin Ford, licensed addiction counselor, recently was named director of The Center’s Substance-Use Program.
“We offer a well-rounded approach that focuses on the whole person,” Ford said. “Working with our entire team to offer a continuum of care is awesome.”
The Center for Counseling & Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.
