Delco Officials Give Care Packages To Those Battling Addiction

DELAWARE COUNTY, PA – Delaware County officials have once again teamed up with local groups to provide care packages to those struggling with addition this holiday season.

On Sunday, Dec. 9, District Attorney Katayoun Copeland joined representatives from the Heroin Task Force, Delaware County Emergency Services, MVP Recovery, and the Springfield Cares Coalition to hand out more than 450 care packages, which included warm gloves, socks, and clothing items, along with a hot meal donated from the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office, to individuals in Kensington’s Hope Park, many who are Delaware County residents.

The donation is part of the HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS program, which is an initiative started by Brian and Christine Corson, of MVP Recovery, four years ago.

"We know that many individuals are in dire need of treatment, some who are on the brink of death, unless they receive immediate help," Copeland said. "It is our goal to reach these individuals, bring them hope, and connect them with recovery resources to save lives so they can become productive, contributing members of our community."

In addition to distributing these care packages, recovery specialists and volunteers interacted with individuals and worked to connect them with treatment. Last year through these efforts, four Delaware County residents were placed into treatment that very day. All individuals were homeless and suffering from opioid addiction, including residents from Springfield Township and Ridley Township.

"With generous donations from businesses and individuals throughout Delaware County, over the past four years, the Hope for the Holidays event has delivered more than 1,000 care packages during the holiday season to those who are on the street and struggling with addiction," said Corson. "These care packages contain items such as winter socks, gloves, blankets, snacks, along with treatment and recovery resources, with the goal to provide comfort, and help to plant the seed and assist them in obtaining treatment."

If you or a loved one is suffering from drug addiction, contact the Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS) hotline at (610) 497-7278.

Image via Delaware County