WILMINGTON, MA – Wilmington School Superintendent Mary DeLai published her weekly blog post on Friday, announcing the launch of the Wilmington Supports Recovery Holiday Drive and encouraging parents to donate. Read DeLai’s blog post, in its entirety, below:
Drug overdoses killed more Americans than automobile crashes in 2013; more than 50% of overdose deaths were related to prescription drugs. Last year, there were 1,256 opioid-related deaths in Massachusetts. Substance use disorder (SUD), the dependence on or abuse of drugs or alcohol, affects 23 million Americans. Ninety percent of individuals affected do not get the help then need. Those who want help say that financial hardship and stigma are the primary obstacles to treatment and support. As a community, we need to work together to end the stigma and help those in recovery. To that end, Wilmington Public Schools has joined with the Town of Wilmington to institute a holiday drive to support those in recovery – Wilmington Supports Recovery.
Most people are unaware that when an individual enters a detox or residential treatment facility they often enter with nothing more than the clothing they are wearing. Further, many of those in treatment or recovery are living in long term housing with young children and have very few personal belongings with them. Those in recovery are in need of basic necessities. Our holiday drive aims to address those needs. What are those necessities? Toiletries, Clothing (new), Games and Activities, and Other Basics are the primary items we are seeking.
Toiletries: Body wash, combs, conditioner, floss, deodorant, feminine products, lotion, razors, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste
Clothing (new items only, please, with the exception of coats and boots if they are in good condition – remember we are supporting those wanting a “fresh start”): Hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, men’s dress shirts, underwear, shoes, socks, t-shirts, winter coats and winter boots (kids and adults)
Activities: Board games, crafting materials such as crayons, colored pencils, glue sticks, safety scissors, crossword puzzle books, journals, magazines, markers, paper, pens, pencils
Other basics: Child sippy cups, diapers, eyeglasses, hair dryers, hair brushes, nail clippers, shower sandals, slippers, towels, twin blankets, twin sheet sets
Between November 18th and December 18th, donations will be accepted at Wilmington High School, Wilmington Middle School, Wilmington Public Safety Building, Wilmington Town Hall, and St. Elizabeth’s Church.
At this time of the year, as we reflect on and express gratitude for all that we have in our lives, let’s be mindful of all those who are struggling at this time. Please help us to help those in recovery and help us end the stigma. For more information, visit wilmingtonsupportsrecovery.com.
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