Here are six practical things you can do for people who come to your doorstep with the burden of opiate addiction. Help them find the best rehab program for their needs. Fivethirtyeight suggests, “Because opioid addic- tion rarely exists by itself, experts recommend starting any search for treatment with a complete psychiatric evaluation by an independent psychi- atrist who is not affiliated with a particular treatment program. That way, you know what kind of additional services and care will be needed and can look for professionals who address this.” Make a list of all the rehab programs in your area, along with the programs’ focus and contact info so the information is at-hand when you need it. Try to make personal contact with someone on staff at each one so they are familiar with your mission and you can know someone there by name. Transport them to a treatment facility. Instead of handing people information and hoping they use it, have a member of your staff bring them to the facility that you’ve decided together will be best for them. Introduce them to the per- son you know, if possible, and let them know that the rescue mission will be there to help them get back on their feet after the rehab program. Set and enforce boundaries. Provide a structured, stable environment. Estab- lishing basic expectations of behavior along with simple, predictable routines help to reduce stress and limit the chaos that can encourage addictive behaviors. After communicating your mission’s COVER FOCUS 20 WWW.AGRM.ORG JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a federal agency in the Department of Health and Human Services, has a national helpline at (800) 662-HELP (4357). It's confi- dential, free, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and offers help in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing mental substance use disorders. The service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Callers can also order free publications and other information. For More Info… Someone is always available to help at this number (800) 662-HELP Kristi, Rescue’s manag- ing editor, has been a magazine writer and editor for 20 years, as well as a contributing author for devotionals and curriculum. She and her husband, Jess, are the parents of three children. Email her at krector@agrm.org.