The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) awarded $498,961 to the Piedmont Regional Community Services Board, based in Martinsville, to develop a substance abuse recovery ecosystem and remove barriers to obtaining employment for those recovering from substance abuse.
U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) said the funds will be used to support those suffering from substance use disorder by increasing the number of recovering individuals in Martinsville and Henry County and expanding the program that currently serves Patrick County.
“Over the course of the pandemic, we have seen an increased demand for substance abuse treatment,” the Senators said. “We are glad to announce that this funding will provide increased support to those struggling with addiction in Southwest and Southside Virginia.”
Ninth District U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith, R-Salem, said “Substance abuse can throw a person’s life off track, but the disruption does not need to be permanent. Helping those in recovery enter or reenter the workforce is an important step forward for them and allows local employers to benefit from their talents. Today’s ARC award of $498,961 to the Piedmont Regional Community Services Board will help develop recovery programs and aid individuals in the region on the path from substance abuse to workforce entry.”
ARC awarded the grant as part of its INvestments Supporting Partnerships In Recovery Ecosystems (INSPIRE) initiative.
