(WNY News Now) – Jamestown, N.Y. – Chautauqua County sees a significant decrease in overdose deaths, showcasing the impact of community efforts and Narcan distribution.

Chautauqua County’s Mental Health Association (MHA) celebrated a remarkable achievement at their July recovery luncheon. Executive Director Steven Cobb announced a 50% reduction in fatal overdoses from November 2023 to June 2024 compared to the same period the previous year. This decline, from 48 to 24, highlights the effective use of Narcan, a life-saving medication available for free at MHA.

Cobb praised the community’s efforts in combating the opioid crisis and emphasized the importance of Narcan, a safe and easily administered medication that reverses opioid overdoses. He noted that while there is still much work to be done, this progress is a positive sign.

A participant who includes public speaking among her recovery goals read a heartfelt statement of encouragement. Cobb also awarded certificates to participants for achieving significant milestones in their recovery, such as obtaining full-time employment and maintaining sobriety for one year and 19 years. Additionally, he recognized three individuals for their work on the flower garden behind the building.

Bonnie Weber was honored for her dedication to the community, particularly her work with the unhoused. She will receive the Impact Award from the YWCA Jamestown at the Women of Achievement Celebration on August 9. Weber inspired the audience with her message, “Make a choice: make a change.”

The luncheon featured a picnic meal prepared and served by MHA staff and board members, with grace offered by Becky Hemmis. Following the meal, a training seminar on tenant and landlord rights and responsibilities was presented by Steve Haagsma, an education specialist with HOME (Housing Opportunities Made Equal). Haagsma’s seminar provided valuable information on housing rights and responsibilities. The Buffalo-based program offers services every second Tuesday of the month from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Department of Development in Jamestown City Hall. No appointment is necessary. Services are also accessible by contacting (716) 854-1400 or visiting HOMENY.org.

The MHA in Chautauqua County is a peer recovery center dedicated to offering support groups and individual coaching for individuals seeking to improve their lives, deepen wellness, thrive in recovery, or support others on their recovery journey. The MHA emphasizes radical acceptance, empowerment, and advocacy for community members struggling with mental health and substance use.

The MHA’s Jamestown center is open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Tuesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The north county center at Grace Lutheran Church in Dunkirk operates on Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For more information about the Mental Health Association, call (716) 661-9044 or visit MHAChautauqua.org or facebook.com/MHAChautauqua. A detailed schedule of MHA’s groups and classes can be found at MHAchautauqua.org/groups.