Opioid Crisis Response: Barren River Sets Up Office of Drug Control Policy

In an exciting move aiming to counter the opioid crisis, the Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) has announced the creation of the Barren River Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP). This initiative is a strong response to the pressing need for measures to combat the growing problem of opioid addiction in the region.

Leading the way in this new office is Brooke Edwards, unveiled as the Associate Director of ODCP. Loaded with over five years of experience at BRADD, Brooke is a licensed mental health associate and brings a wealth of understanding to her new role, coming into effect as of August 1, 2024.

Edwards shared her enthusiasm about new position, stating, “I am very excited and eager to have this new position to further assist BRADD in meeting its mission and goals. This is exactly what we need to help the citizens of our region become more self-sufficient, prosperous, and to have better quality of life.”

The ODCP has a robust task ahead, with the responsibility to dispense the $20 million donation from the Kentucky General Assembly. This funding will lead to the creation of the Anchor Project, an innovative three-pronged service model for the region. The project will create a mental health crisis intake center and a Life Learning Center to serve the ten-county district.

The ODCP’s remit expands beyond just these projects. The office will also work on creating a comprehensive network of resources and research, and make sure everything is transparent and accessible to the community. It’s all about turning the tide on substance abuse and mental health issues – and making sure people know where, how, and what help is available.

Funding will also go towards supporting local governments and community partners. The ODCP will assist in implementing best practices and policy around substance abuse and mental health, crafting a regional response guide. This will be a valuable resource, especially for county and city governments on the receiving end of settlement funds from the KY Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission.

BRADD’s executive director, Eric Sexton, expressed his excitement about the new office and the Anchor Project and praised Brooke Edwards’s capabilities. “We are very excited to continue the positive momentum this region is experiencing in response to substance abuse and mental health issues, and having someone with Brooke’s skill set and passion for the subject is a big asset to this project,” Sexton stated.

The Anchor Project is already earning high regard, not only locally but also across the Commonwealth, as it sets to become the first response model of its kind. It’s a sign of the communities coming together to address a thorny issue that affects so many families, and a beacon of hope for others battling substance abuse and mental health issues.

For more than 50 years, BRADD has been serving ten counties in South Central KY as a federally designated Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living and regional economic development agency. With the creation of its Office of Drug Control Policy, it reaffirms its dedication to improving the quality of life in the region and addressing the dire issue of opioid abuse head-on.