07/15/2024 | State Officials Applaud Grand Opening of East Palestine Resiliency Center

For Immediate Release:
July 15, 2024

State Officials Applaud Grand Opening of East Palestine Resiliency Center

Former doctor's office repurposed into one-stop-shop for mental health services
and supports for Columbiana County residents affected by 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment

(EAST PALESTINE, OH) - Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) Director LeeAnne Cornyn today joined leadership from the Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board (CCMHRSB) and other federal, state, and local officials to celebrate the grand opening of the East Palestine Resiliency Center. The 3,300-square-foot facility provides a centralized location for holistic support and resiliency services for area residents and first responders affected by the 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment.

"From the very beginning, we've said the State of Ohio is committed to supporting the people of East Palestine for as long as they need us, and the opening of this new Resiliency Center is another example of how we're delivering on that promise," said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. "The center will offer mental health supports that we know are crucial for people after experiencing a disaster. It will stand as a beacon of hope and strength, providing the tools and resources needed for this community to recover stronger than ever."

"Today marks an important step in this community's path to recovery," said Director Cornyn. "More than 17 months after the derailment, the people of East Palestine are standing tall. This center is symbolic of the incredible resiliency they've shown when faced with adversity, and it will undoubtedly strengthen the spirit of this community for years to come."

In the wake of the February 2023 disaster, OhioMHAS applied for two emergency response grants totaling more than $1 million from the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The first grant ($209,402) provided immediate mental health support, while the second grant ($879,509) was dedicated to establishing long-term services, including mental health and substance use treatment, counseling, and other therapeutic approaches.

Norfolk Southern provided funds to CCMHRSB to purchase and renovate the former doctor's office located at 50410 State Route 14 in Unity Township into the new Resiliency Center. Renovation work began in late fall 2023 and included the addition of a new roof and extensive interior work. The total cost of the building and renovation project exceeded $600,000. In addition, furnishings and equipment for the center were included in the SAMHSA grant funding secured by OhioMHAS.

The Resiliency Center offers a wide array of free services to those who either lived in the affected Ohio zip code areas (44413, 44441, 44445, or 44455), were employed in the village at the time of the derailment, or who served as a first responder involved with disaster response efforts. In addition to mental health and substance use disorder treatment, the center will offer individual, family, and group counseling; support groups; educational sessions; creative and culinary arts therapies; animal therapy; and meditation, yoga, and tai chi, among other services.

"Everybody has their own way to heal, which is why we are so excited about the Resiliency Center," said CCMHRSB Executive Director Marcy Patton. "Not everyone may want to do talk therapy, but they may find yoga or a chair massage to be really helpful. The center opens up possibilities for different options for dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma."

All services are confidential and provided by independently licensed practitioners. In addition, a Community Navigator is available to assist individuals who are unsure where to start or need guidance with accessing resources, and a Community Educator provides outreach and education services. Telehealth services and transportation assistance to counseling are also available.

While CCMHRSB will oversee the center, the project is a collaborative effort with many partners. Current partner agencies and programs include: The Counseling Center, Family Recovery Center, Columbiana County OSU Extension Office, East Liverpool City Hospital, the Columbiana County Mobile Crisis Response Team, and numerous independent contractors. Additional partners will be added as programs expand.

"The East Palestine Resiliency Center represents our commitment to long-term support and assistance for the community," said Patton. "Resilience means getting back up when life knocks you down, and we're here to lend people a helping hand to get them back on their feet."

While today was about commemorating the creation of a permanent Resiliency Center, more than 3,000 East Palestine community members have already been connected to supports through the emergency response grant secured by OhioMHAS. These dollars have enabled CCMHRSB to meet the needs of local residents by:

• Hiring a Community Navigator to connect individuals with appropriate support, resources, and referrals.
• Hosting numerous community outreach events.
• Establishing Camp Braveheart for first responders and their families to address trauma-related behavioral health concerns.
• Adding a crisis peer supporter within the East Palestine Police Department.
• Expanding a therapeutic community garden where residents grow and harvest fresh produce and learn how to prepare nutritious meals.

"Preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters and traumatic events is essential to the behavioral health of individuals and communities alike," said Director Cornyn. "We are proud to partner with CCMHRSB to make this center a reality and know it will help individuals and families receive the support they need - when they need it."

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About the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services:
The Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) is a cabinet-level state agency that exists to provide statewide leadership of a high-quality mental health and addiction prevention, treatment and recovery system that is effective and valued by all Ohioans. OhioMHAS strives to end suffering from mental illness, substance use disorders, and problem gambling for Ohioans of all ages, their families, and communities. The department oversees a statewide provider network that consists of 50 alcohol, drug addiction and mental health boards, six regional psychiatric hospitals, and more than 2,300 community-based mental health and addiction prevention, treatment, and recovery support agencies. Learn more at https://mha.ohio.gov/.

About the Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board:
The Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board (CCMHRSB) has been serving the residents of Columbiana County since 1969. CCMHRSB plans, funds, and monitors a comprehensive system of mental health and substance use services for both children and adults. The Board contracts with service agencies to provide treatment and support for individuals with mental health and substance use challenges. Public accountability is ensured through a diverse governing board composed of professionals, family members, civic leaders, and individuals in recovery. For more information, visit www.ccmhrsb.org.