POULSBO, Wash. — The City of Poulsbo reports that it is seeing an increase in drug overdoses, which is one reason why they are working with other North Kitsap County agencies to open a new recovery center.
The North Kitsap Recovery Resource Center will open to people who live in the area next week. The City of Poulsbo said Poulsbo Police Chief Ron Harding had the idea for the center.
Now other police chiefs in the area, like Bainbridge Island Police Chief Joe Clark, are looking forward to having the resource.
“This is a much-needed service that we can refer people to,” said Chief Clark. “Even people that we encounter that haven't broken any laws and they're not in any trouble, but they need help.”
With cities in Washington now responsible for enforcing drug possession and drug use laws due to the new state law making them gross misdemeanors, Chief Clark said the resource center will be utilized, because he said punishment is not the solution.
“Punishment doesn't solve the bigger issue,” said Chief Clark. “You know, the addiction continues. So, recovery is really the long-term solution.”
Clark also said the center will be good for everyone in the area, as he said North Kitsap County has been lacking these types of resources.
“People looking for help just don't have access to it,” said Clark. “So, this will bring that opportunity to the community.”
People can be referred by police, the courts, or other programs, but anyone who lives in North Kitsap County can utilize the free services. The services range from medication to help with addiction, mental health counselors, a nurse, and a peer support specialist provided by Peer Washington.
“Really our mission is to provide that peer emotional support and development services for folks,” said Joshua Wallace, the CEO of Peer Washington.
Wallace said he has experienced addiction firsthand. He said having people to relate to and having a welcoming environment is crucial.
“In order for somebody to receive services, it needs to be available when they're ready and they need to be greeted in a way that's nonjudgmental and be supported in sort of the autonomy of the choices that they make,” said Wallace.
Beginning October 26, the center will be open every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for walk-in visits. Appointments are needed the other days of the week. It is located at 19351 8th Avenue NE, Suite 141 in Poulsbo.