Donegal Substance Abuse Alliance (DSAA) is developing new programs and services to meet the needs of families impacted by addiction.
Additionally, the organization, which is currently located at 15A W. Main St., Mount Joy, is planning to relocate. The plan is to use the new space as a hub for family support, not just with the services it currently offers, such as family support, assistance with finding treatment, and naloxone distribution, but also with the new programs it intends to start after it moves. These programs are slated to include SMART (Self-Management and Recovery Training) Recovery meetings and SMART Teen meetings; the organization also plans to invite 12-step programs to meet at its location.
Among the special activities slated to be offered are sober social events for those in recovery, such as game nights, potluck dinners, and movie nights. Open hours will be set up for those in recovery to use computers to build resumes and search for jobs. Life skills classes and a clothing/hygiene pantry will also be available.
DSAA also plans to expand its family support programs by offering SMART Friends and Family meetings, as well as six-week group sessions; the organization currently can hold only one-on-one sessions. Additional plans call for holding family retreats to teach families how to manage the challenges that come when addiction is present in a family.
The organization has had many requests for support groups for children impacted by addiction. As DSAA's mission is to support families struggling with addiction, it is currently working with organizations and individuals experienced in working with children to develop evidence-based programming and support. DSAA is also planning to add support for those caring for their family members' children.
DSAA hopes that its hub will be a friendly, welcoming space full of activity. The organization estimates that it will cost $120,000 to cover construction and furnishings. It has currently raised $50,000.
For more information, readers may email dsasquared@gmail.com or call 717-492-4596.
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