Reviving Appalachia

The Reviving Appalachia Initiative is our effort to bring comprehensive harm reduction and recovery support to our communities. Guided by our ASPIRE principles, we meet people where they are with practical resources, safer use supplies, recovery support, and spaces that build comfort and connection. Through our work in comprehensive harm reduction and As You Are peer‑led support, this initiative offers services that help people stay safe, feel seen, and find what they need in their own time.

ASPIRE

Within our Reviving Appalachia Initiative all of our work is guided by the ASPIRE principles.
A: Acceptance
Meeting people exactly as they are. Honoring autonomy, dignity, and lived experience.
S: Support
Providing encouragement, connection, and understanding. Nobody moves through recovery alone.
P: Perseverance
Continuing forward even when life is hard. Honoring resilience, grit, and small steps of progress.
I: Inclusion
Welcoming all identities, backgrounds, and recovery paths. Ensuring environments are safe, accessible, and culturally responsive.
R: Relationship
Building meaningful, healing connections with peers, families, and the community. Recovery grows in relationship, not isolation.
E: Empowerment
Helping people recognize their strengths, make choices, and direct their own recovery journey.

Comprehensive Harm Reduction (CHR)

Comprehensive Harm Reduction (CHR) is an evidence-based public health approach designed to reduce the negative impact of drug use on individuals and their communities. CHR services have been shown to help prevent the spread of HIV, Hepatitis-C, and other communicable diseases, as well as reducing the likelihood of overdose and death. It is intended for those who are unable to, or not ready to cease the use of drugs. For many, CHR is the beginning of their journey towards recovery.

The MRHD CHR program is located inside of the Smyth County Health Department; however, services are not limited to only Smyth County residents. The program extends services to all residents in the MRHD area, as well as anyone seeking services outside of our geographic range.

Services include:

  • Testing for HIV, HCV, and other diseases
  • Referrals for HIV or HCV treatment
  • Narcan/REVIVE! training
  • Drug test strips
  • Syringe exchange
  • Access to a Clothing Closet
  • Hygiene products
  • Education for safer use

In addition to these services, CHR staff also provide referrals to a variety of services in the community including social services, mental health services, substance use disorder treatment, PrEP, Peer Support Services, housing resources, and assistance with Medicaid enrollment.

 

As You Are

As You Are creates spaces where people can connect and feel supported. You can be yourself, share if you want, listen if you prefer, and show up exactly as you are. Recovery and healing start where you are, which means you are welcome to come as you are.

Upcoming Peer-led Support Groups

As You Are
A peer-led recovery group for support where you can connect with others on their path of recovery. Recovery is a journey, not a checklist, and every path is welcome here.

  • List of dates and location:
    • Grayson County Health Department, 186 West Main Street, Independence, VA 24348
      • 2nd and 4th Tuesday of Every Month at 5:30pm
        • September 29th
        • October 13th & 27th
        • November 10th & 24th
        • December 8th & 22nd

 

As You Are: Families
A peer-led support group focuses on the needs of those who are impacted by a loved one's addiction. Every experience is welcome.

  • List of dates and location:
    • God's Storehouse, 406 W Oldtown St., Galax, VA 24333
      • 1st and 3rd Monday of Every Month at 5:30pm
        • October 5th & 19th
        • November 2nd & 16th
        • December 7th & 21st

 

Have Questions?

For more information about MRHD's Reviving Appalachia Initiative included comprehensive harm reduction or peer services visit the Smyth County Health Department or call 276-781-7450.

For more information about CHR services in Virginia, please visit VDH's CHR page.