**Hi everyone, my name is Mary Ortiz. ** I work at Grace Manor in Lubbock, Texas, a place that has been pivotal in helping me and countless others find a path to a healthier and more hopeful future. I’ve seen first hand the immense difference proper care can make in the lives of those struggling with substance abuse. Yet, every day, we face a heartbreaking challenge: turning people away because we simply don’t have enough funding for beds. Each time someone is turned away, it prolongs their struggle, and the risk of them continuing drug use increases.

**The Need for More Beds**
Currently, Grace Manor finds itself in dire need of more state-funded beds. Without additional funding, we can't accommodate the increasing number of individuals in need of immediate assistance. The waitlists are growing, and our community members are losing precious time that could be spent on their recovery journey.

**Why It Matters**
Substance abuse is not just a personal battle; it’s a community one. Its impact reverberates through families, neighborhoods, and the entire Lubbock area. When individuals don’t receive timely treatment, the social and economic costs escalate. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, substance abuse costs the United States over $600 billion annually in health care, crime, and lost productivity. If we can increase the number of available beds at facilities like Grace Manor, we could reduce these costs significantly while fostering healthier communities.

**How You Can Help**
We’re calling on the state government to increase funding specifically for Grace Manor to allow us to expand our bed capacity. This change will mean that more individuals can receive the care they need when they need it. Expanding our facility's capacity is an immediate, actionable step that can provide relief and hope for those struggling in our area.

**Take Action**
Your signature is not just for Grace Manor; it's for everyone in our community who deserves a chance at a fresh start. It's for the families who dream of reuniting with their loved ones in recovery and for the community that thrives with every victory over addiction.

Please join me in urging the state to increase funding for more beds at Grace Manor by signing this petition. Together, we can ensure that those seeking help receive it promptly, paving the path for a brighter future for all in Lubbock.