I have witnessed firsthand the struggles and challenges faced by individuals battling substance use disorders. Many of us have. It's a journey that is not easy, filled with obstacles and pitfalls, affecting not just the individuals struggling, but their families and communities too. This is why I am passionately advocating for more recovery support in Berea, Kentucky, where resources are scarce, and the need is profound.

Currently, the city of Berea lacks sufficient recovery housing and comprehensive substance use recovery resources, leaving many individuals without the support they desperately need. Across Kentucky, thousands of residents struggle with addiction, a fact echoed by the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy, which reported over 2,100 overdose deaths in 2021 alone. This crisis is not slowing down, and without immediate action, more lives will be tragically lost.

Recovery housing is a cornerstone for many on the path to recovery. These facilities provide not just a safe place to live, but also access to critical support services that foster long-term recovery and reintegration into society. Yet, in Berea, such options are severely limited, forcing many into homelessness or unstable living conditions where the risks of relapse are high. The one organization that does exit, Pain to Purpose LLC, ran by Ms. Kimberly Kirby, is facing severe judgement and opposition to continue its services. 

We are calling upon Mayor Bruce Fraley, the Berea City Council, and community leaders to prioritize the establishment of recovery housing and expand access to recovery resources. This action is essential not only for the health and safety of those affected by addiction but also for the benefit of the community as a whole. By supporting local initiatives, such as Pain to Purpose LLC and others, Berea can become a beacon of hope and recovery for residents in need.

These resources are not just an investment in individuals enduring personal battles but an investment in our community's future — one where everyone has the opportunity to recover, thrive, and contribute positively to society.

Help us break the cycle of addiction in Berea. We need your support to make this vision a reality. Please sign this petition to demand action from our local leaders to expand recovery housing and substance use recovery resources in Berea. Together, we can change lives and strengthen our community.