The nonprofit community service organization RECAP organized an event at its New Life Manor facility in Newburgh to demonstrate that there can be positive outcomes for people struggling with mental illness and substance abuse. Government officials, representatives of community organizations and individuals who have dealt with substance and mental issues were among those attending.
September has been designated as Recovery Month in Orange County, part of a national observance sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The idea is to raise awareness of the impact mental and substance use disorders, especially addiction to heroin and prescription opioids, have on the community and the critical roles of prevention, treatment and support services.
An estimated 100,000 people in Orange County are affected by issues of mental health and substance use, according to the Orange County Department of Mental Health.
To illustrate the impact of addiction in Orange County, 96 pinwheels were placed on the lawn at New Life Manor to represent those who lost the battle with addiction last year. Additional pinwheels were placed by attendees in honor or memory of loved ones.
