PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Officials say one person has sought treatment since the city of Providence launched a program to help connect people suffering from an opioid addiction to recovery centers.
Providence became the first Rhode Island city to offer “Safe Stations” at all 12 fire houses Jan. 2. The program is modeled on an effort already in place in Nashua and Manchester, New Hampshire.
People battling an opioid addiction can go to a fire station at any time, where firefighters will conduct a medical evaluation before connecting them to The Providence Center’s Anchor Recovery program.
The Providence Journal reports officials estimate the city will see up to four people a day seeking treatment. The program has secured $300,000 through state and federal grants.
