Team members from the Anchor of Hull received a check from monies seized as part of the Plymouth County District’s prosecution of drug cases. Pictured from left to right are Programs Director Emily Ludwig, Lead Pastor Jeremy Scott, Director Kurt Gerold, Director of Fundraising Amy Boehm, and District Attorney Timothy J. Cruz. [Courtesy photo]
The Anchor among agencies aided by funds seized by da in drug cases
Eight local organizations were the recent recipients of monies seized as part of Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy J. Cruz’s prosecution of drug cases, his office announced this week.
Cruz established a Community Reinvestment Program that allows the office to expend a percentage of monies and proceeds seized annually as part of drug prosecutions, and to reinvest those funds into the community. The money is used for drug rehabilitation, drug education, and other anti-drug or neighborhood crime watch programs intended to further law enforcement purposes.
“Each year, our office awards numerous Community Reinvestment Program funds to youth organizations, school districts, neighborhood associations, and TRIAD programs throughout Plymouth County, at no cost to taxpayers,” Cruz said. “Over the years, we have expanded our efforts to distribute these funds to different programs addressing the changing needs of the community, whether it be substance use abuse or mental health issues.”
Many of those groups and organizations struggled during the coronavirus outbreak, the DA noted. “They do such great work, and people in the community rely on their help. I am proud that we can steer these funds to good use,” he said. “These organizations have proven through their work that, like our office, they share in our commitment to protect the safety and well-being of all in our communities.”
Community Reinvestment Program recipients are:
Marshfield FACTS
Marshfield Facts will use the funding to compile and distribute literacy boxes focusing on a parent’s or caretaker’s use of substances. These literacy boxes will target children ages 3-10 and will contain three to five books, along with activities. They are primarily intended for the adult in the home to teach children about a loved one’s substance use.
Pembroke Titans Against Drugs
With the onset of COVID-19 and remote education last year, Pembroke middle school students missed out on some presentations with their student resource officer. Pembroke will use the funds for a program where the students will pledge to remain alcohol- and drug-free.
South Shore Peer Recovery in Scituate
South Shore Peer Recovery created a sober softball league that plays each Sunday and will put the funds toward the league.
Anchor of Hull
This organization will use the resources for individuals and families fighting substance use disorder who need emergency crisis diversion. They will also use the funds toward a new meditative arts group.
Homeless Improvement Project in Brockton
This project will use the funding to expand its services to include a shower truck and telehealth clinic.
Hingham CARES
Hingham CARES will fund Johnny’s Ambassadors, a group formed by a mother who lost her son to suicide due to marijuana addiction. The program shines a spotlight on the issue.
24 Hour Power
Susie Lordi and her organization, 24 Hour Power, helps those in recovery channel their creative side through graffiti events. Lordi will use the funds toward a beautification of Tukis Park in Brockton.
Choices4Teens
Brockton-based Choices4Teens Mentoring group will put the funding toward a weekly night program offering fun activities for teens.
Anyone interested in applying for program funding through the Community Reinvestment Program can check out the DA’s website: PlymouthDA.COM.
