National group partners with Virginia nonprofit for first responder recovery program

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A national organization is partnering with a Virginia-based nonprofit through a program to help first responders struggling from opioid use disorder (OUD).

Groups, a recovery organization prioritizing in accessible and affordable outpatient treatment, is partnering with Operation First Response, an organization that helps provide assistance to those that serve and protect the country and communities, for the Gift of Recovery program.

The Gift of Recovery program aims to create connections between charitable giving and community referrals, a Groups release said.

Groups will donate to Operation First Response for each person that is referred to Groups' recovery services and completes an intake appointment. This aims to help not only those looking for recovery assistance, but the first responders who help them.

“First responders are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing overdose, and they’re carrying naloxone and saving lives every day,” said Jeremy Carpenter, Vice President, National Partnerships at Groups. “This partnership recognizes that we can’t address the addiction crisis without also supporting the brave men and women who respond to these emergencies. When we help someone begin their recovery journey, we’re also giving back to the community that helped save their life.”

For more information about Groups, people are urged to call 509-543-0497 or visit their website. To learn more about Operation First Response, click here.