County to Host Public Forum
Discussing Addiction and Recovery
Poughkeepsie … The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) will host a virtual public forum on Thursday, April 14th via Microsoft Teams from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. to discuss services and programs in Dutchess County for people in all stages of addiction and recovery. Individuals, families and community providers are encouraged to attend, and all input will help shape the County’s 2023 Local Service Plans to strengthen addiction and recovery services throughout the county. Registration is required, and residents can register at dutchessny.gov/forumcomments.
The forum will review the latest substance use-related efforts and initiatives throughout Dutchess County and discuss potential changes that may be needed. The forum is part of Dutchess County’s “Breaking Through” initiative, which is designed to minimize the stigma of substance abuse and facilitate access to recovery services.
County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “Many of our neighbors and friends are affected by substance use, whether they or a loved one experience it, and we can help them find a path to recovery. To best formulate the services, we provide – both what works and what may need to change – we offer an open dialogue with the community. Our upcoming public forum allows the public to share their experiences and as well as learn about resources that may be useful to them. I encourage all to attend this upcoming forum to help Dutchess County create a better future for those in our community who are experiencing substance use and seeking recovery.”
The forum will offer attendees the opportunity to share their own experiences, hear from community members who found a pathway to recovery, learn about local services, and speak directly with the County’s recovery service providers. In addition, Dr. Kelly Ramsey, Chief of Medical Services at the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Support, will discuss COVID-19 and its impact on substance use, substance use disorder, and overdoses.
For those unable to attend or who do not feel comfortable speaking in public settings, DBCH welcomes written comments and questions to be read aloud by the forum moderator. Individuals may submit comments online at dutchessny.gov/forumcomments, by email to gcollins@dutchessny.gov, fax comments to 845-486-3691, or mail to: Addiction and Recovery Forum, 230 North Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.
Additional information about addiction and recovery services available in Dutchess County is available on DBCH’s substance use webpage.
