- AdventHealth
March 8, 2021 — In Seminole County, hard-hit by the opioid epidemic, an innovative treatment center is now offering a path out of addiction for patients struggling with substance abuse.
The Hope & Healing Center, located in Sanford, is part of a partnership between AdventHealth, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, Seminole County EMS/Fire Rescue, the Board of County Commissioners and Wal-Mart. Launched in 2019, the partnership is intended to transform the way people struggling with opioid addiction are treated by the health care and criminal justice systems.
“This first-of-its-kind partnership is a unique opportunity for law enforcement and health care to address one of our state’s most pressing issues,” said Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma. “We realized we needed an innovative, holistic approach to address this crisis, which is affecting so many of our neighbors.”
Like much of the country, Seminole County has seen the opioid crisis exacerbated over the past year by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Sheriff’s Office, overdoses countywide increased by more than 50 percent from 2019 to 2020, growing from an average of 39 to 62 per month.
The Hope & Healing Center is currently offering intensive outpatient services, including individual and group counseling; substance-related and recovery-focused education; reflection and spiritual healing groups; and career assistance.
It is also housing 10 inpatient residents. Eventually the facility will be able to house 26 residents at a time for 30-day treatment programs. Patients will be also supported with services that address their educational, vocational, behavioral and housing needs upon discharge from the center.
“We are transforming how we view and treat people with substance-use disorders,” said Tim Cook, CEO of AdventHealth Altamonte Springs. “We need to see the whole person, not just the addiction. By providing a comprehensive network of services and support, our goal is to break the cycle of addiction and set our patients on the path to recovery and long-term success.”
In addition to the center, the partnership includes special training and education by the Sheriff’s Office for ER staff at AdventHealth Altamonte Springs, and dedicated substance abuse coordinators to navigate care for patients during and after their time in the hospital.
The Hope & Healing Center is funded in part by $750,000 in grants from Wal-Mart.
“Wal-Mart is committed to fighting the opioid epidemic, here in Seminole County and around the country,” said Monesia Brown, director of public affairs and government relations for Wal-Mart. “We are proud to work with our community partners and support this innovative approach.”
Contact: CFD External Communications
Tel: 407-303-5950
Recent News
AdventHealth purchases 17 acres in DeLand
AdventHealth purchases 17 acres in DeLand
Dr. Phillips Center launches free Frontyard Holiday Festival supported by AdventHealth
The Dr. Phillips Center is launching its first-ever Frontyard Holiday Festival supported by AdventHealth.
AdventHealth expands access to primary care in the heart of DeLand
AdventHealth has opened a new Primary Care+ location in the heart of downtown DeLand, giving residents a simple way to get everyday care close to where life happens. The primary care practice offers...
AdventHealth Rome Turkey Trot brings community together
Over 700 people gathered on Thanksgiving morning for the AdventHealth Rome Turkey Trot, raising $15,000 for Northwest Georgia Hunger Ministries.
Fueling healthy futures for Flagler’s student athletes
Early practices, full class schedules, and evening games can push student athletes to their limits, and proper nutrition is essential to keeping them strong and focused. AdventHealth has introduced...
When seconds count: How a community of heroes saved one little girl
It was a day like any other — until the phone rang. For Ellison’s mom, that call froze time: “You need to get here right away.”
AdventHealth expands neurology services in West Volusia
Board-certified neurologist Dr. Zarmina Mufti has joined AdventHealth Medical Group and is now caring for patients at AdventHealth, expanding access to expert, whole-person neurological care for...
Central Florida organizations unite to ensure children and families facing food insecurity are fed over holiday break
AdventHealth, Orlando Magic, Florida Citrus Sports and Second Harvest Food Bank team up to support children across Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.
Community-wide food drive launches to benefit kids in Central Florida
AdventHealth and Central Florida organizations unite to ensure children and families facing food insecurity are fed over holiday break.
‘Definitely a miracle’: Puerto Rican woman receives rare heart-lung transplant in Florida
After only a month of waiting, Ivelese Nieves found herself among fewer than 70 patients nationwide each year who receive a rare, lifesaving operation.
Community generosity brings new cancer center to life
AdventHealth Castle Rock is honored to share that the Schrader Family has finalized their $8 million charitable commitment to support the hospital’s new cancer center. Their generosity has played a...
How two AdventHealth Avista physical therapists are transforming care for new moms
For many new moms, the first few days after giving birth are filled with joy, exhaustion and countless physical changes.