Jefferson County Adult Reentry Project

Rescue 180 is applying for funding through the BJA FY23 Improving Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery Outcomes for Adults in Reentry Grant. Rescue 180 is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that works to utilize evidence-based strategies to provide prevention education and heighten awareness of risks associated with substance abuse in Jefferson County, TN. Jefferson County is considered partially rural and is disadvantaged as part of the Appalachian Region. The region’s residents are at particularly high risk for SUD and overdose, but frequently lack treatment resources. Rescue 180 has been a community partner since 1997 and is excited for the opportunity to continue its work with individuals transitioning from incarceration in the Jefferson County Detention Center back into the community. Under this proposal, Rescue 180 will provide peer recovery and re-entry services to incarcerated individuals four months prior to their release. Additionally, the program will provide community-based recovery support services to facilitate a positive experience as individuals transition back into the community. Rescue 180 is partnering with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office (JCSO) who operates the Jefferson County Detention Center (JCDC) to provide these much-needed services for those residing within the detention center, as described in the signed MOU. Assessment will be provided by Allard Consulting, LLC.Assessment tools will include: The Adult Strengths and Needs Assessment or ANSA, TCU Drug Screen V, The TP-Overdose Risk Assessment Tool (TP-ORAT), and the TCU Drug Screen V. Intercepting individuals while incarcerated and providing them information, education, skills, and peer supports will increase recovery capital, resiliency, and increase opportunities for reducing recidivism within Jefferson County. Rescue 180 will provide reentry support through peer support services, NA/AA groups, Life Skills, parenting; transportation for treatment appointments, court proceedings, etc.; and will assist with housing deposits and up to three months of residential treatment housing to ensure they have adequate living arrangements after leaving incarceration. Rescue 180 will serve 200 unique individuals throughout the project period. This grant will continue work that was previously funded through the State of Tennessee and the BJA that ended in 2022.