Newark, DE, May 22, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Addiction Policy Forum, a leading national nonprofit, is releasing the Delaware Innovations to Address Addiction, a spotlight on eight innovative programs that address addition and provide support for families and communities.
“Delaware is ranked fifth in the nation for its drug overdose rate, yet this little state is confronting challenges head-on,” says Jessica Hulsey Nickel, founder of Addiction Policy Forum. “Imaginative innovators throughout Delaware are trying new approaches to address addiction, such as HERO HELP and Delaware START, and their leaders are receiving Innovation of the Year Awards this week."
Three hundred thirty-eight Delaware residents died in 2017 due to drug overdoses -- the sixth leading cause of death in the state -- but there is hope. Eight effective programs addressing addiction and the inspiring people behind them will be honored on May 22, 2019, in Le Chameleon at the Hilton Wilmington/Christiana in Newark, Delaware from 12:00-2:00 pm. Keynote speakers include Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long, Dr. Daniel O'Connell, Ph.D and New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer.
Recognized programs include: atTAcK Addiction, Delaware Prevention Coalition, Delaware START, HERO HELP, Hope Street, New Expectations, Project Engage and Wilmington Hope Commission Winner’s Circle.
“Police officers are bringing people to treatment. Pregnant women are getting intensive treatment instead of jail time. Families who have lost loved ones, are now dedicated to protecting your family. Innovative responses to addiction are changing society for the good,” says Kimberly Clapp, Executive Vice President of Community Engagement at Addiction Policy Forum. “One of our prestigious speakers, Dr. Daniel O’Connell, who turned his life around after struggling with addiction and serving prison time, puts it simply: ‘People change. They need help. We need to help them.’”
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About Addiction Policy Forum
Addiction Policy Forum is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating addiction as a major health problem. Our national headquarters are located in Washington, DC with resources and services in every state.
More information on our mission and projects is available at http://addictionpolicy.org.