Governor Paul R. LePage announced today that on behalf of the people of Maine he is directing $50,000 to the Open Door Recovery Center in Ellsworth from his emergency contingency fund. The Open Door Recovery Center is committed to the health and well-being of those suffering from chemical addiction, providing quality treatment for clients and their family.

Governor LePage met in June with Barbara Royal, executive director of the Open Door Recovery Center, and two counselors to discuss the organization's mission. Recently he met with two of the program graduates, who completed Open Door's Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program.

"These individuals are committed to changing their lives for the better, and this program helps to do that," said Governor LePage. "I commend the staff and their dedication to teaching individuals how to live substance-free and gain and maintain quality of life."

The Open Door Recovery Center serves Hancock, Washington, and Penobscot Counties, with a variety of programs for individuals, families, as well as school prevention programs.

"Throughout this entire experience with Governor LePage, he has been attentive, kind, and provided a forum where both our staff and our graduates were given his undivided attention," said Royal. "He asked, "how can I help?", and he was gracious and welcoming," she added.

According to Royal, Open Door provides treatment regardless of the clients' ability to pay. However, in recent months funding has been limited, and the goal now is to identify donors who are willing to match the $50,000 contribution, she says. "Every addicted person affects approximately twenty people. By offering simultaneous treatment to the addicted person and those directly affected, Open Door strives to educate and support family members and loved ones," she said. "This funding allows us to help many families reunite and resume healthy relationships as they return to being productive members of society."

For more information on Open Door Recovery Center visit www.opendoorrecoverycenter.org or call 667-3210.

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