FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 25, 2019
Contact: Katherine Trombetta, 417-841-3389, 417-880-6306 or [email protected]
Missouri Job Center Addressing Opioid Crisis with Missouri Works Together Program
The Missouri Job Center is helping to address the ongoing opioid crisis and the impact on the workforce in the Ozark Region, through a new grant program called Missouri Works Together.
Missouri Works Together is a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, awarded to four workforce regions in Missouri that have the highest rate of opioid use. It aims to provide employment and career training services to workers impacted by the opioid crisis. Under the grant, up to four individuals will be trained as Certified Peer Support Specialists. These specialists will then be employed at places such as emergency rooms, treatment centers or recovery houses to assist individuals after overdose and help them find resources for recovery.
“Overdose deaths in Missouri are higher than national averages and recently, we have seen many more affected by the spike of overdoses in our community,” said Tasha Cook, Missouri Works Together Program Director for the Job Center. Cook, whose older brother is battling opioid addiction, has experienced the impact first hand on her family. “I have seen the damage addiction causes to the person as well as family and friends,” she added.
The Missouri Job Center is currently seeking individuals who are interested in becoming Certified Peer Support Specialists. If you have been impacted by the opioid crisis and would like to apply, contact Tasha Cook at 417-841-3382.
For more information, contact Katherine Trombetta at 417-841-3389 or [email protected]
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The Ozark Region Missouri Job Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aides and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. MO TTY users may call 800-735-2966 or contact Missouri Relay at 711.