In a significant move to enhance support for individuals grappling with substance use disorders, Multnomah County has expanded access to its 24/7 sobering services. Previously, only law enforcement officers could refer individuals to these services. Now, five behavioral health organizations have been authorized to make referrals, aiming to increase utilization of the county’s sobering beds, which have seen limited use since their opening in April.
The selected referral partners include:
- Portland Street Response
- Project Respond
- Community Health Assess and Treat (CHAT)
- Mental Health and Addiction Association of Oregon (MHAAO)
- 4D Recovery
This expansion is part of Multnomah County’s broader efforts to strengthen its continuum of care for individuals experiencing substance use and mental health crises. By opening referral pathways to these trusted community organizations, the county aims to provide more accessible and immediate support to those in need.
Addressing the Need for Sobering Services
The need for accessible sobering services in Multnomah County has been pressing. Since the closure of Portland’s previous sobering center in 2020, individuals in crisis have had limited options, often leading to arrests or emergency room visits. The new referral system seeks to fill this gap by offering a safe and supportive environment for individuals to sober up and connect with recovery resources.
Community Response and Anticipated Impact
Community organizations have welcomed the expansion. Tony Vezina, co-founder and executive director of 4D Recovery, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “This new partnership will expand access to on-demand services, significantly reducing or even eliminating waitlist times for some of the individuals we serve.” This sentiment reflects a collective recognition of the importance of accessible sobering services in the community.
Looking Ahead
Multnomah County’s commitment to enhancing sobering services is ongoing. Plans are in place to establish a permanent Sobering & Crisis Stabilization Center at 1901 S.E. Grand Ave., with up to 50 beds for sobering and withdrawal care. This center aims to provide a comprehensive solution for individuals in crisis, offering a direct pathway to recovery services and reducing the burden on jails and emergency departments.
By expanding referral access and investing in long-term solutions, Multnomah County is taking significant steps toward addressing the complex challenges of substance use and mental health crises in the community.
References
- Multnomah County News Release: Multnomah County expands referral access to 24/7 sobering services (multco.us)
- Multnomah County News Release: Multnomah County opens 13 new sobering stations at Coordinated Care Pathway Center (multco.us)
- Multnomah County News Release: Multnomah County announces plans for new 24-hour Sobering and Crisis Stabilization Center (multco.us)
- Multnomah County News Release: Multnomah County secures location for new 24-hour treatment readiness center, part of ongoing work on HB 4002 (multco.us)
- Multnomah County News Release: County investments add more than 250 recovery and stabilization beds (multco.us)
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