On The Point, we discuss how the opioid epidemic is impacting children. Sixty percent of those dying from opioid overdose are between the ages of 25 and 44; a demographic that is more likely to have school aged children. Those living and struggling with addiction often can’t fulfill their parental duties and are absent from the lives of their children. What kinds of supports and services do we need to help children and families dealing with addiction, and how are schools, non-profits and the state stepping up to help? Mindy Todd hosts a conversation about the issues with these guests: Maura Healy, Attorney General; Charles Jodoin, Director of Student Services at Falmouth Public Schools; Richard “JR” Mell, Regional Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cape Cod & the Islands; and Kerry Bickford, Secretary of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren. Bickford is raising two grandchildren with her husband Rick. We also hear from a middle school student whose father is addicted to drugs.
Here are links for more information about the Listening Tour with the Attorney General’s office, coming to Bourne on Wednesday, November 9, 5-7 p.m., and Dartmouth, November 2, 5-7 p.m.
