Posted: Thursday, December 14, 2017

This Monday, the City of Providence announced the PVD Safe Stations program, a partnership between The Providence Center (TPC), The RI Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals, and High Intensity Drug Task Area (HIDTA) New England. The program is designed to connect opioid-dependent individuals with treatment and recovery services. Available 24/7, any person will be able to visit one of Providence’s 12 fire stations, speak with public safety officials on duty, and immediately get connected to support services.

The announcement, held at the Branch Avenue fire station, featured remarks from Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza, Acting EMS Chief Zach Kenyon, TPC President and COO Deborah O’Brien, and other city and state officials. PVD Safe Stations is in alignment with the State of Rhode Island’s Overdose Prevention Action Plan, which includes expansion of peer recovery services and access to treatment options for long-term recovery.

“The creation of safe spaces throughout the city of Providence where individuals can meet with a recovery coach and be connected to the treatment they need is an innovative approach to community-based care,” said O’Brien in a statement. “We're proud to be part of this effort.”

PVD Safe Stations will launch January 2, 2018 and be active in all Providence fire stations.  For more information and a full list of stations, visit www.PVDSafeStations.com.