Alcohol is legal and widely accepted, which can make it easy to overlook when it’s becoming a problem. For some people, drinking stays occasional and manageable. For others, it slowly begins to impact sleep, mood, relationships, work, finances, or health. And because alcohol misuse doesn’t always look like “rock bottom,” many individuals and families live with stress and uncertainty for a long time before reaching out.

When to pay attention:

Everyone’s situation is different, but here are a few common signs that alcohol may be taking up too much space:

• Drinking more often or more heavily than intended

• Needing alcohol to relax, sleep, cope, or “take the edge off”

• Feeling irritable, anxious, or low when not drinking

• Hiding or downplaying how much you drink

• Missing responsibilities, withdrawing from loved ones, or feeling disconnected

• Loved ones expressing concern—even if you don’t agree

If any of these feel familiar, Alcohol Awareness Month is a good time to ask a simple question: Is alcohol helping me build the life I want—or getting in the way of it?

For families: you’re not alone

Alcohol use affects more than one person. Families often carry the emotional weight—worry, frustration, fear, and sometimes guilt. If you love someone who is struggling, it’s okay to seek support for yourself too. You don’t have to have all the answers, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Recovery is possible—and support makes a difference

At Flagler Open Arms Recovery Services (OARS), we provide education, support, and peer services to individuals and families impacted by substance use disorder. Peer support is powerful because it’s grounded in lived experience—real people who understand what it’s like to face hard days, rebuild trust, and take recovery one step at a time.

Whether you’re questioning your own relationship with alcohol, supporting a loved one, or simply wanting to learn more, we’re here to help you find clarity and connection.

A small step is still a step

Alcohol Awareness Month isn’t about labels—it’s about awareness, safety, and hope. If you’ve been thinking, Maybe I should talk to someone, consider this your sign.

Reach out to Flagler OARS to learn about support options and resources. You deserve support, and recovery is possible.

In the fight against opioid overdoses, Narcan (naloxone) stands as one of the most powerful tools we have to save lives. Yet despite its proven effectiveness, myths and misconceptions continue to prevent people from carrying and using this life-saving medication. Let’s explore why Narcan matters and address the dangerous myths that persist.

The Local Reality: Our Northeast Florida Community

The opioid crisis isn’t just a national problem—it’s affecting our neighbors right here in Northeast Florida. The numbers tell a story of both challenge and hope:

Flagler County: According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Flagler County experienced 30 overdose deaths in 2023, up from 28 in 2022.

District 23 (St. Johns, Putnam, and Flagler Counties): In 2024, there were 54 deaths involving fentanyl, down from 80 in 2023—a 33% decrease that shows community intervention efforts are making a real difference.

While Florida has seen a 26% decline in opioid-related deaths statewide from 2023 to 2024, and District 23 Medical Examiner Dr. Wendolyn Sneed reports that all three counties in our region have experienced declines in overdose deaths, every single life lost still represents a family forever changed, a community member we could have saved. These numbers aren’t just statistics—they’re our neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family members.

Why Narcan Matters

Narcan is a medication that rapidly reverses opioid overdoses. When someone overdoses on opioids—whether prescription painkillers, heroin, or fentanyl—their breathing slows or stops entirely. Narcan works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain, restoring normal breathing within minutes.

The statistics are clear: Communities with widespread Narcan access see significant reductions in overdose deaths. This medication doesn’t just save lives in the moment—it gives individuals another chance at recovery, another opportunity to connect with support services, and another day with their loved ones.

Who Should Carry Narcan?

The answer is simple: anyone. If you or someone you know uses opioids, you should have Narcan available. But it’s not just for people who use substances. Family members, friends, coworkers, and community members can all play a role in preventing overdose deaths.

Debunking Dangerous Myths

Myth #1: “You can get high from Narcan”

The Truth: This is absolutely false and scientifically impossible. Narcan has zero potential for abuse because it produces no euphoric effects whatsoever. In fact, Narcan does the exact opposite of opioids—it blocks opioid receptors rather than activating them. There is no “high” to experience. Narcan only works if opioids are present in someone’s system, and even then, it simply reverses the overdose. If you give Narcan to someone who hasn’t taken opioids, nothing happens. This myth is particularly dangerous because it may cause people to hesitate in emergency situations or avoid carrying Narcan altogether.

Myth #2: “Narcan enables drug use”

The Truth: Narcan saves lives, period. Research shows that Narcan availability does not increase drug use. What it does do is provide a safety net that allows individuals to survive long enough to seek help. Recovery isn’t possible if someone doesn’t survive their overdose. In our three-county region alone, having Narcan readily available has contributed to the 33% decrease in fentanyl deaths we’ve seen from 2023 to 2024.

Myth #3: “Using Narcan is complicated and requires medical training”

The Truth: Narcan is designed for anyone to use, even without medical training. The nasal spray version is as simple as spraying into one nostril. You cannot harm someone by administering Narcan, even if they’re not experiencing an opioid overdose. As Lauren Ramirez from Salus Medical Training explains, “As soon as you put that into their nostril, it releases the opioid from their brain receptor.”

Myth #4: “Narcan makes people violent when they wake up”

The Truth: While some individuals may experience confusion or withdrawal symptoms when Narcan reverses an overdose, violent reactions are rare. The person administering Narcan should give the individual space and wait for emergency services to arrive. The temporary discomfort is far better than the alternative.

Myth #5: “One dose of Narcan is always enough”

The Truth: With the prevalence of fentanyl and other potent synthetic opioids in Northeast Florida, multiple doses of Narcan may be necessary. The 54 fentanyl-related deaths in our region in 2024 underscore how powerful these substances are. This is why it’s important to call 911 immediately, even after administering Narcan. Emergency responders can provide additional doses and medical care.

Myth #6: “Narcan is expensive and hard to get”

The Truth: Right here in Flagler and St. Johns Counties, free Narcan is readily available. Flagler Open Arms Recovery Services provides free Narcan kits and training to anyone who wants them. We also offer free Narcan distribution kiosks—The Barney Naloxone Stand—for local businesses in Flagler County. We deliver, install, and keep them full at no cost. In St. Johns County, DiscoverRecover provides similar services. Pharmacies across Florida allow you to obtain Narcan without a prescription.

Myth #7: “If someone needs Narcan, they’re beyond help”

The Truth: Needing Narcan doesn’t mean someone has failed or is hopeless. Substance use disorder is a medical condition, and overdose is a medical emergency. Many people who have been revived with Narcan have gone on to achieve long-term recovery. Every person deserves that chance.

How to Respond to an Overdose

1. Check for signs: Unresponsiveness, slow or no breathing, blue lips or fingernails, gurgling sounds
2. Call 911 immediately: Even if you have Narcan, emergency medical help is essential
3. Administer Narcan: Follow the instructions on the package—nasal spray goes in one nostril
4. Perform rescue breathing if trained: Provide oxygen while waiting for Narcan to work
5. Give a second dose if needed: If the person doesn’t respond within 2-3 minutes, give another dose
6. Stay with the person: Keep them on their side and stay until help arrives

Building Recovery-Friendly Communities in Northeast Florida

Widespread Narcan access is just one piece of building recovery-friendly communities. When we combine harm reduction tools like Narcan with education, peer support, and compassionate care, we create environments where people feel safe seeking help without fear of judgment or stigma.

The progress we’re seeing—from 80 fentanyl deaths in 2023 to 54 in 2024 in District 23—shows that our community efforts are working. Dr. Wendolyn Sneed, Medical Examiner for St. Johns, Putnam, and Flagler counties, confirms that all three counties have experienced declines in overdose deaths. But we can’t stop now. Every life matters.

At Flagler Open Arms Recovery Services, we believe every life is worth saving. We offer free Narcan training that covers the basics of Narcan administration, legal protections, the effects of opioids, and why Narcan matters to our community. No one should hesitate to carry Narcan because of myths or misinformation.

Take Action Today

• Get trained: Attend a free Narcan training session with Flagler OARS or DiscoverRecover
• Request a kiosk: If you’re a business owner in Flagler County, request a free Barney Naloxone Stand
• Carry Narcan: Keep it in your car, home, or bag—anywhere you might need it
• Share information: Help dispel myths by educating others about Narcan
• Advocate: Support policies that increase Narcan access and Good Samaritan laws
• Show compassion: Remember that behind every overdose is a person deserving of dignity and a chance at recovery

Narcan doesn’t enable addiction—it enables survival. And survival is the first step toward recovery. By understanding the truth about Narcan and rejecting harmful myths, we can all play a role in saving lives and supporting our neighbors on their journey to wellness.

Together, we can continue the progress we’re making in Northeast Florida. Contact Flagler Open Arms Recovery Services at flagleroars.org or DiscoverRecover at discoverrecover.org to learn more about Narcan training and how to make your business or organization recovery-friendly.

The opioid crisis is hitting close to home—but there’s HOPE. Our community is seeing real progress:

THE LOCAL REALITY:
�Flagler County: 30 overdose deaths in 2023
� District 23 (St. Johns, Putnam & Flagler): Fentanyl deaths dropped from 80 in 2023 to 54 in 2024—a 33% DECREASE

Dr. Wendolyn Sneed, Medical Examiner for our counties, confirms ALL THREE counties are experiencing declines in overdose deaths But dangerous myths about Narcan still prevent people from carrying this life- saving medication.

Let’s set the record straight:
MYTH: “You can get high from Narcan” TRUTH: Scientifically IMPOSSIBLE.
Narcan has ZERO potential for abuse. It blocks opioid receptors—it doesn’t activate
them. There is no “high” to experience. If you give Narcan to someone without opioids
in their system, nothing happens.
MYTH: “Narcan enables drug use” TRUTH: Research shows Narcan availability
does NOT increase drug use. In our three-county region, having Narcan readily
available has contributed to the 33% decrease in fentanyl deaths we’ve seen from 2023
to 2024.
MYTH: “You need medical training to use Narcan” TRUTH: Anyone can use
Narcan! The nasal spray is as simple as spraying into one nostril. You can’t harm
someone by administering it.
MYTH: “Narcan is expensive and hard to get” TRUTH: FREE Narcan is available
right here!

Flagler OARS provides free Narcan kits, free training, and free distribution kiosks (The Barney Naloxone Stand) for businesses. Discover and Recover serves St. Johns County. We deliver, install, and keep them full at NO COST.

The Bottom Line: Our community went from 80 fentanyl deaths to 54—a 33% drop. Community intervention WORKS. But we can’t stop now. Narcan doesn’t enable addiction—it enables SURVIVAL. And survival is the first step toward recovery.

�� 80 → 54 fentanyl deaths (33% decrease) �� Every person deserves a chance at life
�� Every community member can be a lifesaver �� Progress is possible when we work together

Want to help save lives? �� Contact Flagler OARS for free Narcan training or to request a kiosk for your business �� flagleroars.org | discoverrecover.org

Together, we’re building a recovery-friendly Northeast Florida. ��

What Does It Mean to Be Recovery-Friendly?

A recovery-friendly community is one where individuals and families affected by substance use disorders are welcomed, supported, and empowered to thrive. It’s a place where recovery is celebrated, stigma is challenged, and everyone has access to the resources they need to heal.

Why Your Community Needs to Embrace Recovery

Recovery is everywhere. Right now, millions of Americans are in recovery from substance use disorders—your neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family members. When we create recovery-friendly spaces, we’re not helping “them”—we’re helping us.

The Impact of Stigma

Stigma kills. It prevents people from seeking help, keeps families suffering in silence, and perpetuates the misconception that addiction is a moral failing rather than a treatable health condition. When communities embrace recovery:

• People feel safe asking for help sooner
• Families find support instead of judgment
• Individuals in recovery can participate fully in community life
• Everyone benefits from reduced healthcare costs and increased public safety

What Recovery-Friendly Communities Look Like

They educate. Community members understand that addiction is a disease, recovery is possible, and support makes a difference.

They include. Businesses hire people in recovery. Schools teach evidence-based prevention. Faith communities offer welcoming spaces. Local government prioritizes recovery resources.

They celebrate. Recovery stories are shared openly. Milestones are honored. Hope replaces shame.

They support. Peer support services, Narcan training, family programs, and recovery housing are accessible to all—regardless of insurance or ability to pay.

The Ripple Effect

When one person enters recovery, entire families heal. When communities support recovery:

• Workplaces gain dedicated, loyal employees
• Crime rates decrease
• Emergency services are used more appropriately
• Children grow up in stable, healthy homes
• Economic productivity increases
• Community connections strengthen

How You Can Help

Learn. Attend a Narcan training. Listen to recovery stories. Challenge your own assumptions.

Speak up. Use person-first language. Correct stigmatizing comments. Share accurate information.

Support. Attend recovery events. Donate to recovery organizations. Advocate for recovery-friendly policies.

Welcome. Create spaces where people in recovery feel valued and included—in your workplace, your faith community, your neighborhood.

Recovery is Possible. Community Makes It Achievable.

Every person deserves the chance to recover, rebuild, and thrive. Every family deserves support, not judgment. Every community becomes stronger when recovery is embraced.

Together, we can build a community where recovery isn’t just possible—it’s celebrated.

Want to learn more about how to support recovery in Flagler  or St. Johns counties/? Contact Brock Birtolo at discoverrecover.org or Flagler Open Arms Recovery Services at www.flagleroars.org. We offer free community education, Narcan training, peer support services, and family programs. Because recovery is everyone’s business.

September is National Recovery Month—a time to spotlight hope, support, and the reality that recovery from substance use and mental health challenges is possible for everyone. At Flagler OARS, we see this truth every day: recovery isn’t just getting by, it’s getting your life back.

Recovery Month’s theme, “Restoring Every Aspect of Life (REAL),” captures what we witness in our community. Recovery goes beyond stopping a substance or managing a condition. It’s about rebuilding the mind and body, mending relationships, discovering strengths, and finding meaning in each day. Recovery means learning to care for your whole self—sleep, nutrition, movement, friendships, and spirit.

The journey to wellness looks different for everyone. Some people lean on peer support and community groups; others thrive with treatment and counseling. Support from family, friends, or even a kind professional can make all the difference. What never changes is the need for connection and the deep strength it takes to reach out for help.

This month, we encourage everyone to learn more about recovery and the resources that exist right here in Flagler County. You may not know it, but many people around you are on their own recovery paths—neighbors, colleagues, friends, or family. Sometimes just knowing you’re not alone can be the first spark of hope.

Recovery is built on every small victory. It could mean making it through a day with less anxiety, reconnecting with a supportive loved one, or feeling a moment of peace. Every step forward deserves to be celebrated.
At Flagler OARS, we offer peer support, education, advocacy, and hope for our community. If you, or someone you love, is seeking recovery or wondering how to start, reach out. Whether you’re ready to join a group, talk with someone who understands, or just need a safe space for questions, we’re here. No one should walk the journey alone.

This Recovery Month, let’s honor those working toward wellness, celebrate the courage it takes, and support each other—one day at a time. Recovery is REAL, and it’s happening all around us.
Learn more, get involved, or connect with local resources at Flagler OARS. Together, we restore hope and make recovery possible for all.

Want to help support recovery in our community? Every donation makes a difference. Visit us or give online today: Donate to Flagler OARS here: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/flaopearmrec. Your contribution brings hope and healing to more local families. Thank you for being part of the journey!

#RecoveryMonth #Wellness #RecoveryIsReal #FlaglerOARS

A&S Hardware Store (1044 CR-305, Bunnell, FL)

10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Bunnell Pharmacy (703 E. Moody BLVD., Bunnell, FL)

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

St. John Homeless Coalition (63 Chapin St., St. Augustine)

9:30 AM – 2:00 PM

St. Johns Food Pantry (12 Madeore ST, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

12:00 AM – 4:00 PM

We’re bringing life-saving FREE Narcan directly to you, plus connections to essential resources!

Swing by, chat with our friendly team, grab info, and get immediate support.

Come connect with our community and discover resources to empower your recovery journey

Tuesday 8/19/25

Bridges, United Methodist Fellowship (205 N Pine St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

St. Johns Food Pantry (12 Madeore ST, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

12:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Habitat for Humanity ReStore (1637 N. U.S. Hwy 1, Palm Coast, FL 32137)

10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Mt. Moriah Food Pantry (676 Christopher St., St. Augustine, FL 32084)

1:45 PM – 4:00 PM

Look for the RV out in Flagler and St. Johns

We’re here to offer a listening ear, valuable resources, and free Narcan to anyone who needs it.

We’re here to offer a listening ear, valuable resources, and free Narcan to anyone who needs it.

Wednesday 8/20/25

Care Cupboard (205 N Pine St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

St. Johns Food Pantry (12 Madeore ST, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

Today! 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Overlord Tattoo Studio (7 Old King RD N Suite 2, Palm Coast, FL. 32137)

4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Bunnell Pharmacy (703 E. Moody BLVD., Bunnell, FL)

11:30 AM – 4:00 PM

The Soul Cafe (205 N Pine St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Join our vital community outreach! Learn about our services and get free Narcan.

We’re providing support and resources to empower individuals on their path to recovery.

We’re offering vital recovery resources and free Narcan!

Thursday 8/21/25

Hidden Trails Community Center (6108 Mahogany Blvd, Bunnell, FL 32110)

This morning, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM

St. Johns Food Pantry (12 Madeore ST, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

Today! 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Discover and Recover Storefront (3501 N Ponce Deleon Blvd C2, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Bunnell Pharmacy (703 E. Moody BLVD., Bunnell, FL)

1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Join us for connection and support. Resources and Narcan available!

We’re providing resources to empower individuals on their path to recovery.

We’re here to offer valuable resources, and free Narcan to anyone who needs it.

Friday 8/22/25

Harris Grocery (1006 S State St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Habitat for Humanity ReStore (1637 N. U.S. Hwy 1, Palm Coast, FL 32137)

10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Cannabis Dispensary (160 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

St. Johns Food Pantry (12 Madeore ST, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

We’re excited to be here today to continue our vital community outreach! Come learn about our services and get free Narcan

Stop by to chat with our team, get information, and access immediate support.

Saturday 8/23/25

Flagler Beach Farmers Market (105 S 2nd St, Flagler Beach, FL 32136)

9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

We’re excited to be here today to continue our vital community outreach! Come learn about our services and get free Narcan

Don’t miss out on these opportunities to get trained, get Narcan, and get connected!

Share this post to help us spread the word and save lives!

Always remember:

Same-Day Referrals to a CRPS! Connect with a Certified Recovery Peer Specialist to guide you on your journey.

Free Narcan Available! Be prepared to save a life.

Resources for SUD! We’re here to help you find or maintain your pathway to recovery.

Ending Stigma! Your recovery journey is powerful, and we’re here to support you without judgment.

#FlaglerOARS #DiscoverAndRecover #RecoveryIsPossible #EndTheStigma #FreeNarcan #CommunitySupport #SUDRecovery #BunnellFL #PalmCoastFL #StAugustineFL #FlaglerCounty #StJohnsCounty #HopeNotHate #FLRecovers #Harmreduction #PublicHealth #NormalizeRecovery

Monday 8/11/25

 A&S Hardware Store (1044 CR-305, Bunnell, FL)

 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

 Bunnell Pharmacy (703 E. Moody BLVD., Bunnell, FL)

 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

 St. John Homeless Coalition (63 Chapin St., St. Augustine)

 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM

 St. Johns Food Pantry (12 Madeore ST, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 12:00 AM – 4:00 PM

 First United Methodist Church (118 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

 We’re bringing life-saving FREE Narcan directly to you, plus connections to essential resources!

 Swing by, chat with our friendly team, grab info, and get immediate support.

 Come connect with our community and discover resources to empower your recovery journey

Tuesday 8/12/25

 Bridges, United Methodist Fellowship (205 N Pine St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

 Habitat for Humanity ReStore (1637 N. U.S. Hwy 1, Palm Coast, FL 32137)

 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

 First United Methodist Church (118 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

 Mt. Moriah Food Pantry (676 Christopher St., St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 1:45 PM – 4:00 PM

 We’re here to offer a listening ear, valuable resources, and free Narcan to anyone who needs it.

 We’re here to offer a listening ear, valuable resources, and free Narcan to anyone who needs it.

Wednesday 8/13/25

 First United Methodist Church (118 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

 Care Cupboard (205 N Pine St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

 St. Johns Food Pantry (12 Madeore ST, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 Today! 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

 Bunnell Pharmacy (703 E. Moody BLVD., Bunnell, FL)

 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM

 The Soul Cafe (205 N Pine St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

 Join our vital community outreach! Learn about our services and get free Narcan.

 We’re providing support and resources to empower individuals on their path to recovery.

 We’re offering vital recovery resources and free Narcan!

Thursday 8/14/25

 Hidden Trails Community Center (6108 Mahogany Blvd, Bunnell, FL 32110)

 This morning, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM

 Discover and Recover Storefront (3501 N Ponce Deleon Blvd C2, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

 Bunnell Pharmacy (703 E. Moody BLVD., Bunnell, FL)

 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

 Join us for connection and support. Resources and Narcan available!

 We’re providing resources to empower individuals on their path to recovery.

 We’re here to offer valuable resources, and free Narcan to anyone who needs it.

Friday 8/15/25

 Harris Grocery (1006 S State St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

 Cannabis Dispensary (160 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

 St. Johns Food Pantry (12 Madeore ST, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

 We’re excited to be here today to continue our vital community outreach! Come learn about our services and get free Narcan

 Stop by to chat with our team, get information, and access immediate support.

 Saturday 8/16/25

 Flagler Beach Farmers Market (105 S 2nd St, Flagler Beach, FL 32136)

 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

 We’re excited to be here today to continue our vital community outreach! Come learn about our services and get free Narcan

Don’t miss out on these opportunities to get trained, get Narcan, and get connected!

Share this post to help us spread the word and save lives!

Always remember:

• Same-Day Referrals to a CRPS! Connect with a Certified Recovery Peer Specialist to guide you on your journey.
• Free Narcan Available! Be prepared to save a life.
• Resources for SUD! We’re here to help you find or maintain your pathway to recovery.
• Ending Stigma! Your recovery journey is powerful, and we’re here to support you without judgment.

#FlaglerOARS #DiscoverAndRecover #RecoveryIsPossible #EndTheStigma #FreeNarcan #CommunitySupport #SUDRecovery #BunnellFL #PalmCoastFL #StAugustineFL #FlaglerCounty #StJohnsCounty  #HopeNotHate #FLRecovers #Harmreduction #PublicHealth #NormalizeRecovery

Monday 8/4/25

 A&S Hardware Store (1044 CR-305, Bunnell, FL)

 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

 Bunnell Pharmacy (703 E. Moody BLVD., Bunnell, FL)

 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

 St. John Homeless Coalition (63 Chapin St., St. Augustine)

 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM

 St. Johns Food Pantry (12 Madeore ST, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 Today! 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

 We’re bringing life-saving FREE Narcan directly to you, plus connections to essential resources!

 Swing by, chat with our friendly team, grab info, and get immediate support.

 Come connect with our community and discover resources to empower your recovery journey

Tuesday 8/5/25

 Bridges, United Methodist Fellowship (205 N Pine St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

 Habitat for Humanity ReStore (1637 N. U.S. Hwy 1, Palm Coast, FL 32137)

 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

 Mt. Moriah Food Pantry (676 Christopher St., St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 1:45 PM – 4:00 PM

 We’re here to offer a listening ear, valuable resources, and free Narcan to anyone who needs it.

 We’re here to offer a listening ear, valuable resources, and free Narcan to anyone who needs it.

Wednesday 8/6/25

 First United Methodist Church (118 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

 Care Cupboard (205 N Pine St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

 St. Johns Food Pantry (12 Madeore ST, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 Today! 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

 Bunnell Pharmacy (703 E. Moody BLVD., Bunnell, FL)

 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM

 The Soul Cafe (205 N Pine St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

 Join our vital community outreach! Learn about our services and get free Narcan.

 We’re providing support and resources to empower individuals on their path to recovery.

 We’re offering vital recovery resources and free Narcan!

Thursday 8/7/25

 Hidden Trails Community Center (6108 Mahogany Blvd, Bunnell, FL 32110)

 This morning, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM

 Discover and Recover Storefront (3501 N Ponce Deleon Blvd C2, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

 Bunnell Pharmacy (703 E. Moody BLVD., Bunnell, FL)

 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

 Join us for connection and support. Resources and Narcan available!

 We’re providing resources to empower individuals on their path to recovery.

 We’re here to offer valuable resources, and free Narcan to anyone who needs it.

Friday 8/8/25

 Harris Grocery (1006 S State St, Bunnell, FL 32110)

 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

 Habitat for Humanity ReStore (1637 N. U.S. Hwy 1, Palm Coast, FL 32137)

 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

 Cannabis Dispensary (160 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

 St. Johns Food Pantry (12 Madeore ST, St. Augustine, FL 32084)

 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

 Advent Health 100 (60 Memorial Medical Pkwy, Palm Coast, FL 32164)

 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM

 We’re excited to be here today to continue our vital community outreach! Come learn about our services and get free Narcan

 Stop by to chat with our team, get information, and access immediate support.

Don’t miss out on these opportunities to get trained, get Narcan, and get connected!

Share this post to help us spread the word and save lives!

Always remember:

• Same-Day Referrals to a CRPS! Connect with a Certified Recovery Peer Specialist to guide you on your journey.
• Free Narcan Available! Be prepared to save a life.
• Resources for SUD! We’re here to help you find or maintain your pathway to recovery.
• Ending Stigma! Your recovery journey is powerful, and we’re here to support you without judgment.

#FlaglerOARS #DiscoverAndRecover #RecoveryIsPossible #EndTheStigma #FreeNarcan #CommunitySupport #SUDRecovery #BunnellFL #PalmCoastFL #StAugustineFL #FlaglerCounty #StJohnsCounty  #HopeNotHate #FLRecovers #Harmreduction #PublicHealth #NormalizeRecovery

Recovery from substance use disorder is not a journey meant to be traveled alone. At Flagler OARS, we understand that the path to long-term recovery requires more than individual determination—it demands a community of understanding, compassion, and shared experience.

The Power of Peer Connection

Peer support represents one of the most powerful tools in the recovery toolkit. When someone in recovery connects with others who have walked similar paths, something transformative happens. The isolation that often accompanies addiction begins to dissolve, replaced by genuine understanding and hope. Our peer support specialists at Flagler OARS bring lived experience to their roles, offering insights that can only come from personal recovery journeys.

Breaking Down Barriers

One of the greatest obstacles to seeking help is the stigma surrounding substance use disorder. Traditional treatment models, while valuable, can sometimes feel clinical or disconnected from the real-world challenges of recovery. Peer support creates a bridge between professional treatment and everyday life, offering practical guidance from those who truly understand the struggle.

At Flagler OARS, our peer support services focus on meeting people where they are—without judgment, without conditions, and with complete respect for their dignity. We believe that every person deserves compassion and the opportunity to rebuild their life.

Building Long-Term Success

Recovery is not a destination but an ongoing process. Peer support provides the scaffolding needed to build lasting change. Through regular check-ins, group sessions, and one-on-one mentoring, individuals develop the skills and relationships necessary for sustained recovery. Our peer specialists help navigate challenges like rebuilding family relationships, finding employment, managing triggers, and celebrating milestones.

The beauty of peer support lies in its reciprocal nature. Those receiving support often become sources of strength for others, creating a continuous cycle of healing and growth within our community.

A Vision for Flagler County

Flagler OARS envisions our county as a recovery harbor—a place where individuals and families affected by substance use disorder can find the support they need without fear of judgment. Through our peer support programs, we’re building a foundation of hope, one connection at a time.

Recovery is possible, and no one has to face it alone. At Flagler OARS, we’re committed to walking alongside every person on their journey, offering the open arms of community support that make all the difference in building a life of lasting recovery.

For more information about Flagler OARS peer support services, contact us today. Together, we can build a stronger, more compassionate community.