WEST OCEAN CITY – A local organization is raising money to help those seeking treatment for addiction.
On Sunday, April 28, from 1-4 p.m., the Worcester County Warriors Against Opiate Addiction will host its third annual Turtle for Recovery fundraiser at the Greene Turtle in West Ocean City.
Jackie Ball, co-founder of the Worcester County Warriors, said proceeds from the fundraiser will be used to help get people into treatment for addiction.
“We are actually helping more people than we ever have before,” she said. “In 2018, we helped 60 people into treatment.”
But while demand for the organization’s help remains high, Ball said funds have dwindled.
“We get requests on a daily basis from Hudson Health and other recovery services saying they have people who are ready to get help but don’t have the money for the first month’s rent or they don’t have the money immediately because they don’t have a job. Now we are getting requests but don’t have the money.”
Since 2016, the organization has partnered with the Worcester County Health Department, local schools, businesses, area hospitals and other entities in their mission to provide resources, support and education.
In addition to hosting meetings and raising money for people seeking treatment, Ball said the Worcester County Warriors visits public schools and local organizations on an annual basis to educate individuals on the opioid epidemic. Yet, she noted recent struggles to engage the public.
“I think the information is out there and the people are hearing a lot about it,” she said. “So I think people may not feel as compelled to help or get involved.”
Ball explained Turtle for Recovery will allow the Worcester County Warriors to continue in its mission to raise awareness and help those in the community.
“It’s important for people to know we are only able to do this through fundraising,” she said.
The fundraiser will feature live music by Tranzfusion, complimentary food, door prizes, a Chinese auction and a raffle. Tickets will be on sale for $10 at the door.
“Funds raised will go to help individuals in Worcester County seek treatment,” Ball said. “Worcester County is the connection. We are helping local people.”
For more information, visit wocowarriors.org or the Worcester County Warriors Against Opiate Addiction Facebook page.
