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BernCo Drop-In Center Features Peer Support Services

Alan Levin via Flickr
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Bernalillo County’s Peer Drop-In Center for folks looking for help with things like counseling, addiction, and job searches is now open in southwest Albuquerque. It's the first of its kind in the community.

There are stereotypes about people who seek help when they're in crisis or dealing with addiction, said Evan Gonzales, program specialist with Bernalillo County Health Services.

"And the great part about this is. there's a drop-in. You know, there's no appointment needed. And that's great for young people because sometimes there is that stigma and there's that hesitation," Gonzales said.

The center relies on a peer support model and community members play an important role because people share their lived experiences with others, Gonzales said. Residents can also advocate for what additional services they would like to see.

The Albuquerque Center for Hope and Recovery partnered with the county and the city on the peer drop-in center, which is funded by revenue from a one-eighth percent tax approved by county voters in 2014.

 

 

Taylor is a reporter with our Poverty and Public Health project. She is a lover of books and a proud dog mom. She's been published in Albuquerque The Magazine several times and enjoys writing about politics and travel.