‘Operation Hope’ Tackles Substance Abuse Disorders In Montclair

MONTCLAIR, NJ — People struggling with substance abuse can now get help through a newly launched voluntary program, courtesy of the Montclair Police Department.

On Tuesday, Montclair police launched “Operation Hope,” a new program geared towards assisting those struggling with a substance use disorder. A ceremony was held to mark the occasion at Christ Church in Montclair.

According to the MPD:

“The Montclair Police Department, led by Chief Todd Conforti, asked their police chaplains to be part of Operation Hope, which is an initiative where those in need, present themselves voluntarily and are assisted by the Montclair Police Department in finding detox and/or treatment services for substance use disorder. The police chaplains, as well as the Montclair Vice Crimes Unit’s detectives, were recently trained by the Essex Health and Wellness Recovery Center in assisting those who voluntarily come to the Montclair Police Department asking for help with finding their road to recovery. They are called Angel Guides.”

“There are many services throughout Essex County and New Jersey that support individuals who suffer with substance use disorder but many are not open 24 hours, seven days a week,” the MPD continued. “Since the police department never closes, this makes accessing help very convenient.”

Anyone interested in assisting with Operation Hope can contact the Operation Hope Law Enforcement Liaison, DSG. Charles Cunningham, at ccunningham@montclairnjusa.org, 973-509-4716.

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