MONMOUTH COUNTY – Monmouth County officials spread “hope” in addition to fighting crime at this year’s National Night Out in Asbury Park. Sheriff Shaun, Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher Gramiccioni and drug recovery specialists unveiled a new method of battling the opioid crisis on August 7: the HOPE One Monmouth Mobile Unit.
“The heroin epidemic remains one of the most important crises law enforcement in Monmouth County must conquer and HOPE One will be a vital asset, as we continue to lead the way in the fight against drug abuse,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden.
The HOPE One Monmouth Mobile Unit is an innovative new approach to the opioid epidemic in the form of a 32 foot long vehicle that travels to those who need services and help with addiction.
“Instead of individuals who are struggling with addiction coming to us, we travel to them, meet one on one, and offer services and options which will help combat drug overdoses and deaths,” said Golden.
The HOPE One will be making its way to various communities throughout the week to connect with those who seek guidance for substance abuse, as well as their family members. Highlighted with a purple recovery ribbon, the mobile unit brings along a sheriff’s officer, a certified peer recovery specialist and a licensed clinician to provide immediate services, treatment facilities and Naloxone training.
“HOPE One is a great example of the outside-the-box thinking that we need to help those in dire need of assistance,” said Christopher Gramiccioni, Monmouth County Prosecutor. “A mobile assistance unit brings another vital resource to our communities when we cannot rely on drug abuse to stop at town boundaries. This presents us with a vital opportunity to reach a person that may not otherwise have the ability to take the first step towards addiction treatment.”
The mobile unit was formerly used by the Communications Division’s Field Communications for large incidents and community events.
“This great approach to combatting drug abuse is a partnership and commitment formed between law enforcement and substance abuse recovery specialists, who both share a common goal,” said John Brogan CEO Lifeline Recovery Support Services. “That is to address the deadly problem of addiction in our communities, and save lives by securing a path to healthier and sober living.”
Hackensack Meridian Health, Carrier Clinic, NJ Reentry Corp, Mainstream Recovery, Ocean Mental Health Services and Behavioral Wellness and Recovery are partnering with this initiative to provide services to Monmouth County individuals in need.
