In The Valley, Press Release

TWO LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS PAIR UP TO COMBAT SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING AT THE CROSSROADS



 

LEHIGH VALLEY, Pa.— Aspire to Autonomy, Inc (ASPIRE) a local anti-trafficking non-profit based in Easton, has announced their continued partnership with Lehigh Valley Intake Unit, which encompasses not only referral for services but also a presence in their drop-in center Change on Third in Easton and now Change on Hamilton in Allentown.

Since the partnership began, ASPIRE has acquired office space within Change on Third, and has launched their Community Intervention Services (CIS) program. CIS provides outreach, identification, engagement, and assessment to individuals in Northampton County. Identified individuals include the underserved and unsheltered populations, and individuals with substance abuse and mental health needs. CIS has the ability to broker individuals to necessary resources that address their needs.

Lehigh Intake Unit recognizes that abstinence from drugs and alcohol is only one part of recovery. They recognize the need for a holistic approach to promote both physical and mental wellness. The intake unit functions as a gateway to treatment for residents of the Lehigh Valley who are voluntarily seeking assistance for substance use disorder or those actively involved in the criminal justice system (parole, probation, DUI, etc.) as well as other county related services. Lehigh Valley Intake Unit offers:

  • Drug & Alcohol Evaluations for adults and adolescents
  • DUI Evaluations
  • Evening and weekend appointments
  • Referrals to Outpatient or Inpatient Treatment Programs
  • Case Management Services
  • Referrals to Certified Recovery Specialist Services
  • Telehealth Services
  • Bilingual Staff

The partnership allows the two organizations to facilitate referral and treatment for individuals identified through the CIS program. ASPIRE hopes to continue its work as Lehigh Valley Intake Unit expands.

Founded in 2018, Aspire to Autonomy Inc. has been on the front lines in the fight against trafficking in the Lehigh Valley and beyond. ASPIRE is A Supportive Presence, Initiating Recovery and Empowerment that provides an opportunity for growth and development and fosters autonomy. ASPIRE believes in the cultivation of resources, services, community, and human relationships to foster equity and allow dreams of freedom and independence to become a reality.

Information provided to TVL by:
Sarah Cattin
Aspire to Autonomy, Inc.
http://pathtoautonomy.org/