Renovo Area Outreach formed to address drug presence
By Donna M. Kshir
for The Record
RENOVO, PA – Pennsylvania has one of the highest overdose death rates in the country. Renovo, the once quiet, sheltered rural town has also felt the crunch. Renovo is hardly the town it used to be with Opioids, Methamphetamines, and Fentanyl, running rampantly, falling into children’s hands.
In recent months, the town has relied heavily on local volunteer fire departments and ambulance crews to assist them in emergency situations. These incidents have placed volunteer rescue workers’ lives in jeopardy, reinforcing that a community cannot rely on volunteers alone, police protection is a necessity. Between the increasing drug presence, violence and lack of police protection Renovo is a breeding ground for destruction leaving many residents wondering about the town’s future.
A group of concerned citizens who calls themselves Renovo Area Outreach has come together to create a solution to the ongoing drug crisis in Renovo.
The prevention group plans to utilize the community’s resources to keep drugs out of children’s hands by implementing programs that include substance abuse prevention. Activities will fluctuate from communication campaigns, hosting drug-free social events, and offering educational training courses for youth and parents, specifically designed to address risk and protective factors for substance abuse. These activities are intended to address risk factors and promote protective measures, creating strong relationships with trusted adults.
In addition to area youth, President Dave Young said the group plans to utilize local resources to help those struggling with addiction. They hope that implementing self-help programs like Narcotics Anonymous, which hosts weekly meetings at the Salvation Army Renovo, will allow those struggling with addiction to begin their journey to recovery. Another recommendation by Young is the Lycoming/Clinton West Branch Drug and Alcohol Abuse Commission provides support and resources tailored to each person’s specific needs.
Chairperson Rob Probst encourages the public to participate in the safe and responsible disposal of expired or unused medications that could have the potential for negative consequences, including harm to the environment, accidental poisonings, and drug diversion. There is a ‘Take Back Day’ box for safe disposal located at Magisterial District Judge Frank P. Mills’ office on the corner of 9th and Erie Avenue.
The prevention group is on the agenda for the Renovo Borough Council meeting on May 10. This will be the group’s first formal introduction to the community. President Dave Young and Vice President Maureen Ruhl will speak on behalf of the group.
If you or someone you love lives in the Renovo area and suffers from drug dependence contact the Renovo Area Outreach program to help you or your loved one take the first step on the long road to recovery.
Prevention is the best strategy for the war on drugs.
