Saving Lives: How PAARI and Sergeant Pat Greenhill are Fighting Opioid Addiction
We don’t turn anyone away, we will provide them with access to resources.
Picture this: a police officer not just enforcing the law but actively helping those struggling with opioid addiction. In this episode of the 'Cover 2 Resources' podcast, Sergeant Pat Greenhill from the Berea Police Department teams up with PAARI State Representative Nicole Walmsley to share their groundbreaking work with the Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative (PAARI). This initiative, which began in Gloucester, Massachusetts, is dedicated to providing opioid addicts with access to the treatment they desperately need.
Sergeant Greenhill emphasizes, 'We don’t turn anyone away, we will provide them with access to resources'. Their approach is all about compassion and community engagement, aiming to transform how communities tackle the opioid crisis. What makes PAARI stand out? It’s their personalized approach. Each case is handled individually, ensuring that everyone gets the help that suits their unique situation. The program has already made significant strides locally and is now expanding its reach across the nation.
Imagine a plug-and-play model that other communities can adopt to fight this public health emergency head-on. That’s exactly what PAARI hopes to achieve. This episode delves into how the initiative is changing the culture within communities, especially among those battling addiction. The conversation also highlights the importance of community support and the relentless efforts to marshal resources for maximum impact.
If you're interested in understanding how law enforcement can play a pivotal role in addiction recovery, or if you’re seeking inspiration from real-life stories of change, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear more about the challenges and triumphs of PAARI’s mission and how they are making a tangible difference in the fight against opioid addiction.