(WNY News Now) – Chautauqua County – The Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County (MHA) highlighted significant strides in recovery and community support during its July luncheon.

At the Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County’s July recovery luncheon, Executive Director Steven Cobb shared promising news about local progress in combating opioid overdoses. Cobb reported a significant reduction in fatal overdoses, with numbers falling from 48 cases between November 2022 and June 2023 to just 24 in the same period a year later. This 50% decrease underscores the effective use of Narcan, an opioid overdose reversal medication available free at the MHA.

The event featured inspiring personal stories and acknowledgments of recovery milestones. A participant, who has set public speaking as a recovery goal, delivered a motivational statement they authored. Cobb presented certificates to individuals for achieving key milestones, including securing full-time employment, and reaching one-year and 19-year sobriety anniversaries. Additionally, three participants were honored for their contributions to maintaining the MHA flower garden. Special recognition was given to Bonnie Weber, who will receive the Impact Award from the YWCA Jamestown at their Women of Achievement Celebration on August 9 for her efforts supporting the unhoused. Weber’s message was a call to action: “Make a choice: make a change.”

The luncheon also featured a picnic meal, graciously blessed by Becky Hemmis, prepared and served by MHA staff and board members. Following the meal, attendees participated in a training seminar led by Steve Haagsma, an education specialist with HOME (Housing Opportunities Made Equal). The seminar covered tenant and landlord rights and responsibilities, with additional support available at Jamestown City Hall and through HOMENY.org.

The MHA continues its mission as a peer recovery center, providing support groups and individual coaching to foster personal growth and recovery. Their commitment to radical acceptance, empowerment, and advocacy is crucial for those struggling with mental health and substance use issues.

MHA’s Jamestown center operates 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 is open Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, call (716) 661-9044 or visit MHAChautauqua.org.