Each month, Operation UNITE provides an update on its efforts to combat substance abuse in its 32-county service area.

“It’s especially important during National Medicine Abuse Awareness Month that we remind people of all the ways they can find help and all the ways they can provide help to fight this epidemic,” UNITE President/CEO Nancy Hale said. “From identifying drug treatment options for friends and relatives, to properly disposing of unwanted medicine, to participating in drug abuse education events, Operation UNITE and thousands of community volunteers are making a difference.”

Highlights from the monthly report for September include:

Investigations:

  • 44 tipline calls were received with 21,611 calls received since inception. Report suspected drug activity toll-free: 1-866-424-4382.

Drug Courts:

  • During September, there were 503 active participants in drug courts within the UNITE service area. Of those, 360 were employed and 112 were pursuing education.
  • The courts collected more than $4,811 in fines, restitution and court costs, along with more than $7,245 in child support in September. Since inception those totals are $1.37 million and $913,000, respectively.
  • There were 5,516 hours of community service completed in September.

Treatment:

  • Nine people entered treatment in September using a UNITE Treatment Voucher.
  • Since inception, 4,089 have entered treatment.

Education/UNITE Coalitions:
UNITE and its coalitions held a total of 135 activities in September. These activities included:

  • Backpacks with anti-drug information were distributed to fifth-graders in all six elementary schools in Lincoln County.
  • The Monticello Police Department will now be a “Give Me A Reason” distribution site for youth drug-testing kits in Wayne County.
  • Shoot Hoops Not Drugs had 85 participants at the Appalachian ChalleNGe Academy in Harlan County.
  • More than 1,600 people attended the UNITE Bowl football game, which featured Rockcastle County High School vs. Wayne County. More than 25,000 rolls of toilet paper were collected and donated to recovery centers.