BEDFORD – The Serenity Club of Bedford has requested $5,000 in opioid settlement funds from the Lawrence County Commissioners to help cover its operating expenses. Jerry Hill, representing the club, requested Tuesday’s commissioner meeting, highlighting the organization’s vital role in supporting local recovery efforts.
The Serenity Club provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals recovering from addiction. It offers 17 meetings per week, open to anyone, seven days a week. Hill stated that the club serves as many as 250 individuals weekly.
“Our request for $5,000 would cover about half of our annual rent and utility expenses,” Hill explained to the commissioners, emphasizing the club’s reliance on community support. “We operate entirely without paid staff, relying on the dedication of our members.”
Several club participants spoke passionately about the club’s impact on their lives. George, who has been in recovery for three years, shared his journey. “It started when I was young. I didn’t know where to go. I was so sick and tired and didn’t know how to live,” he recounted. “I found Serenity Club, I found fellowship, they loved me until I could learn to love myself. They saved my life. Serenity Club is a very important place to me.”
The personal testimonies underscored the critical need for continued support for the Serenity Club. The commissioners acknowledged the club’s valuable contribution to the community and took the request under advisement. A decision on the allocation of the opioid settlement funds is expected at a future meeting.
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