Robert Aderholt
HALEYVILLE-Thursday, April 1, Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) released the following statement concerning the $355,858 he worked to secure for the Will Bright Foundation, which is dedicated to helping people recover from opioid abuse. The announcement from the Appalachian Rural Commission is attached.
“While it has taken a backseat in the headlines because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the opioid epidemic continues across the 4th Congressional District and across Alabama. Congress specifically allocated these funds announced today, which are being administered by the Appalachian Rural Commission (ARC), to fight the scourge of opioid abuse because Appalachia is the region hit hardest by this epidemic.”
“In March of 2019, in partnership with the ARC, I hosted an opioid roundtable discussion at Northwest Shoals Community College. At this meeting, I introduced Lisa Bright to officials from ARC. They were impressed with her efforts, and the foundation she and her husband Bill created in their son’s memory, the Will Bright Foundation. The foundation helps individuals bridge the gap between addiction and taking the next steps beyond recovery, such as finding employment. This meeting led directly to the announcement today that the Will Bright Foundation, in partnership with the University of Alabama, will receive more than $500,000 from ARC and local partners to help its efforts in and around Fayette County to expand and enhance their recovery and worker training program for individuals coming out of opioid addiction. This has been a missing link for both employers in the region as well as those in recovery.
“I’m proud to have played a role in securing these funds for such an important cause. I’ve made a goal of my time in Congress to work to protect the most vulnerable among us. This includes those who have fallen into the downward spiral of opioid abuse. I know that Lisa and the Will Bright Foundation will use these funds to help many people recovering from opioid addiction as well as employers who need reliable workers.”
WASHINGTON, D.C.-The Appalachian Regional Commission announced today approval of a grant in the amount of $355,858 to the The University of Alabama for the Recovery Ecosystem For Substance Use Prevention And Treatment Through Community Reintegration And Employment Support For Alabamians (RESTORE Alabama). At least 36 workers/trainees will obtain employment and at least four of the businesses contacted will hire program participants.
The University of Alabama, in partnership with the Will Bright Foundation, will expand and enhance an ongoing recovery and training program of the Will Bright Foundation. In conjunction with other established partners, this project will offer comprehensive integrated services including employment, educational, and psychosocial support services to 42 individuals in recovery from substance abuse issues in Fayette county and its immediate surrounding areas. The project will facilitate recovery and reintegration into society. A holistic framework is used to assist individuals recovering from substance abuse issues not only achieve employment, but also comprehensively reintegrate into the society as productive tax-paying citizens. This grant will enable project partners to increase provision of housing, education, transportation, and psychosocial support.
In addition to ARC funds, local sources will provide $153,292, bringing the total project funding to $509,150.
Media Release/Carson G. Clark/Communications Director/Office of Rep. Robert B. Aderholt (AL-04)
