Local support group spreading awareness on substance use disorder
A local support group dedicated to helping teens and adults who have lost someone to substance gathered with like minded organizations, and community leaders to spread awareness.
Joe's Place, founded by Leslie Wingard in October 2024, named after her son who passed away four years ago, is now creating a safe space for other families who have lost loved ones. On Friday, leaders and volunteers with the organization coordinated a forum in Hermitage where folks shared their stories, while also connecting with other folks and organizations.
"I don't want them stigmatized. I want them to know their child was valued. I want them to know they didn't do anything wrong." said Wingard, who said this stigma also falls on the shoulders of families who have lost loved ones.
Wingard tells 21 News, returning to her hometown and seeing how hard substance use disorder hit the area was a catalyst for wanting to create change.
"What really shocked me was coming back and seeing Mercer County bouncing between 3-5 in substance use disorder deaths." Wingard explained, referencing where the county ranked among others in the Keystone State. Leslie was also alarmed by the rates in Lawrence and Trumbull Counties.
Over the last several years, the emphasis on awareness has put a dent in those alarming trends.
"In 2024, we are seeing out first significant drop in overdose deaths both in the county and in Pennsylvania, actually exceeding the national rate for improvement to that point too." said Dr. John Gallagher, who was in attendance for the forum.
A plateau in the uphill battle against substance use disorder and the stigmas that come with it.
Gallagher also noted that only 10-15 percent of those with substance use disorders seek treatment, a trend he says has to change.
Meanwhile, events like this forum, with resource hubs on site will continue to have a positive impact outside of the walls of a church.
