The Peru Gazette

PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – Prescription Opiate and Heroin Addiction and opiate-related overdoses continue to increase in the North Country. Several local professionals and concerned citizens have joined forces to form Substance Abuse Prevention and Recovery of Clinton County (SPARCC). The coalition, comprised of people in recovery, concerned citizens, treatment providers, elected officials, law enforcement, educators, and community organizations, joins together to raise awareness and to address the issues associated with substance abuse in our community. Our mission is to foster community health through education, prevention, treatment and recovery of substance abuse.

On Thursday, May 10 from 7 – 9 PM, SPARCC is hosting a free Community Event at the Strand Center for the Arts, 25 Brinkerhoff Street, Plattsburgh, in order to raise awareness of the impact of the heroin crisis and to educate the community about services available to help. Our guest speaker, Richard Jensen, will present his story of his toughest opponent – addiction. Mr. Jensen is a former wrestler who struggled with addiction for years and then found his courage to overcome his obstacles and barriers. 

All members of Clinton County and surrounding counties are urged to attend to be informed of the impact of the heroin crisis in our community and to join forces with SPARCC in creating positive change. Visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SPARCCNY to RSVP.