St. Martinville – The St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office introduced its new S.T.A.R. Program (Substance Abuse Team for Addiction and Recovery Services), a comprehensive initiative designed to assist people facing substance use disorders, at a press conference this past Wednesday.
The STAR program offers a range of confidential, no-cost support services aimed at fostering recovery and improving mental health, Sheriff Becket Breaux said.
The STAR Program aims to empower people to overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery, according to the program’s mission statement.
“We provide a nonjudgmental environment where participants can access tailored resources and support. Our knowledgeable and compassionate support team is available 24/7 to assist individuals in making informed decisions about their care,” the statement reads.
The program centers around the community, its schools, and current and soon to be released inmates in the St. Martin Parish Correctional Center, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
“The ability to help those struggling with addiction disorders and ultimately keeping them from entering or returning to the criminal justice system is one of our main goals and benefits of this program,” according to the Sheriff’s Office.
STAR
The program is supported by funding from a national opioid lawsuit settlement.
Key aspects of the STAR program:
• Focus: Addressing addiction and substance abuse before law enforcement gets involved. It aims to help individuals recover and become productive members of the community.
• Services: Offers treatment for mental health crises, substance abuse, and addiction recovery, as well as job placement assistance. Approach: Provides counseling and support to individuals and families affected by addiction.
• Accessibility: Offers a 24/7 helpline for those seeking assistance: 337394-HELP (4357).
• Confidentiality: Participation in the program is confidential and there is no cost to receive help. • First Responder Training: Sheriff’s deputies are trained to recognize signs of stress or crisis and connect individuals with the appropriate resources and treatment.
• Funding: Receives $200,000 annually for 15 years from the opioid lawsuit settlement.
“Essentially, the STAR program provides a pathway to recovery and support for those dealing with substance abuse, with the aim of reducing crime and incarceration rates in St. Martin Parish,” a press release from the Sheriff’s Office said.
