How Melrose is Fighting Substance Abuse

MELROSE, MA — Mayor Robert Dolan detailed the city's fight against substance abuse in a post on the city website. You can read the full post here.

Here are some of the highlights:

Melrose is now fully funding the position of Substance Abuse Prevention Coordinator, filled by Kathy Guevara. She will oversee the Substance Abuse Coalition, helping struggling Melrose residents and serving as a consultant, treatment provider, and resource to the Middle and High School staff, parents, and students.

Guevara has offices in Melrose High School and at the Health Department at City Hall. She works close with school officials and resource officers.

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Guevara and former assistant principal Bob Savarino guide the Youth Action Team, a group of high school students who educate their peers about substance abuse through various preventive strategies. One way they communicate is a a one-page newsletter called “The NewsFlush” posted in school bathrooms.

Guevara is working on implementing a new youth diversion program, helping nonviolent first offenders avoid court proceedings and the potential of a criminal record.

One of the new services available is the Interface Helpline, which provides referrals to mental health providers. Any Melrose resident can call 617-332-3666, ext. 1411, or 1-888-244-6842, ext. 1411, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. A mental health professional will help them find resources.

For more information call Guevara at 781-979-4130 or go to the city's website.

Photo by Mark Bonica via Flickr