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SMOC Peer Recovery Coaches
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The Peer Recovery Coaches Program began with the goal of reducing the number of opioid-related overdoses and fatalities in the MetroWest. Through this program, certified SMOC Peer Recovery Coaches – individuals who themselves are in recovery – link opioid overdose survivors to recovery programs and other supports such as therapy, AA/NA, and Intensive Outpatient Programs. Peer Recovery Coaches also work in the community and offer harm reduction guidance and support to reduce future overdoses and work with individuals toward recovery. This support from Peer Recovery Coaches empowers individuals and increases their optimism that recovery is possible.
Opioid use continues to be one of the highest ranked health concerns in the state of Massachusetts, and the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic has slowed the overall movement of people through the recovery continuum of care, leaving many isolated and in need of supports. Peer Recovery Coaches rely on technology to interface with clients, encouraging them to participate in live AA/NA and other recovery chats and webinars. SMOC is also exploring small recovery groups held outdoors where clients can still remain apart at a safe distance but begin to reintegrate in-person with others in recovery. We are grateful to the MetroWest Health Foundation, Reliant Foundation, and the Department of Public Health/Bureau of Substance Addiction Services for making this important program possible.
Are you or someone you know in need of support?
SMOC Peer Recovery Coaches Program Contact – Nicole Scarmeas (508) 232-8282
Behavioral Health Partners of MetroWest Referral Line, open M–F – 1(844) 528-6800
Behavioral Health Partners of MetroWest Online Referral Form – click here
For mental health or substance use emergencies requiring immediate assistance:
Advocates Psychiatric Emergency Services, 24 hours/7 days a week – 1(800) 640-5432
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Thank You to MetroWest Health Foundation!
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For over 20 years, the MetroWest Health Foundation has provided critical funding to programs working to improve the health of the MetroWest community. SMOC is extremely grateful for the Foundation's support of many of our longstanding as well as new and innovative programs over the years, including Common Ground Resource Center's single adult shelter system housing and healthcare coordination services, Basic Health Needs through SMOC Behavioral Healthcare, SMOC's Recovery Coaches program, the Greater Framingham Hunger Network, the Framingham Community & Cultural Center (FCCC), COVID-19 emergency assistance and meals, the Framingham COVID-19 Emergency Fund, and the FCCC's Mentoring Program.
In recognition of the Foundation's exceptional support of SMOC, we were pleased to present the Foundation with our Innovative Partner of the Year award at SMOC's 2019 Annual Meeting. Thank you, MetroWest Health Foundation, for the many ways you support SMOC's programs and our shared communities!
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SMOC Recognizes Juneteenth
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In recognition of its importance in America's history and the need for further dialogue and racial understanding, at its most recent meeting, SMOC's Board of Directors approved the addition of Juneteenth (June 19th) to its list of official holidays beginning in calendar year 2021. Juneteenth recognizes the emancipation of slaves in Texas in 1865, nearly two and a half years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, due to Texas' remote location relative to Washington and difficulties enforcing the new law. The Board also approved the observance of Indigenous Peoples' Day in place of Columbus Day. SMOC's 24-hour programs, including emergency shelters and residential recovery programs, remain open on holidays.
These changes are thanks in part to the advocacy of SMOC's Diversity, Access and Inclusion Committee, which was formed in the summer of 2020 and is led by a Steering Committee of SMOC Board and staff members. The DAI Committee advocates for and promotes staff trainings, further diversification of the board and staff base, education around and observation around special days, and more.
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