BRADD and partners coordinate Recovery Backpack distribution

The Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) Office of Drug Control Policy assisted the Southern Kentucky Reentry Council to facilitate the supply and distribution of 100 recovery backpacks for those reentering the community after incarceration, drug rehabilitation and recovery.

"The Backpack Program reflects our region's commitment to supporting successful reentry," Southern Kentucky Reentry Council Community Projects Chair Serenda LoBue said. "It continues to be one of the cornerstone projects of the Council. Providing basic necessities may seem simple, but it sends a powerful message — that every person deserves the opportunity to start again and move forward with dignity. We're thankful for BRADD's partnership that helps strengthen these efforts and expand our impact throughout the region."

Each backpack includes basic necessities, including shampoo, soap, razors, socks, pens, paper, feminine hygiene products, wipes and other toiletries, along with resource information for needs like food, shelter, employment and additional community support services. Backpacks also include emergency naloxone (Narcan) kits supplied by the Kentucky Opioid Response Effort (KORE).

"I'm grateful to be a part of a community effort that supports individuals as they reenter our community and continue their recovery journey," Barren River Office of Drug Control Policy Director Brooke Edwards said. "Initiatives like the Recovery Backpack Program help remove immediate barriers and connect people with resources that support long-term recovery."

The Recovery Backpack Program was created in 2015 to address the increasing challenges to reintegration to society after incarceration and rehabilitation. Since its inception, the program has provided at least 1,500 backpacks to those in need, contributing to a productive, safe reintegration to BRADD communities. The backpacks will be distributed by the Warren County Regional Jail.