MAYVILLE – More than 200 people didn’t let the threat of a blizzard prevent them from attending a community forum addressing the recent increase in drug addiction in Chautauqua County.
Community leaders, medical personnel and law enforcement officials joined families and recovering addicts at Chuatauqua Suites in Mayville for the Drug Addiction Awareness Forum, designed to educate the public on the issue of addiction and what can be done to help those who suffer from it. The event was organized by Chautauqua County Executive Vince Horrigan and Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene Director Patricia Brinkman.
The day-long event featured professionals who work with addicts as well as law enforcement officials who battle drug trafficking in the region. A Q&A session also allowed the audience to ask questions and offer their thoughts on addiction in Chautauqua County.
Associate Medial Director David Withers from the Marworth Treatment Center addressed the audience in the morning, saying getting drug abusers to come forward, or admit they have a problem, is one of the biggest challenges for people that treat addicts.
WRFA will feature portions of Withers’ presentation during this week’s Community Matters program, which airs at 6 p.m. Thursday and Noon on Sunday.
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