Regional Task Force on Addiction, Homelessness, and Mental Health Update: March 27, 2025

ELKINS, W.Va. — March 31, 2025 — The Regional Task Force on Homelessness, Addiction, and Mental Health continues its partnership with community organizations across North Central West Virginia to address these critical challenges. Though the City of Elkins does not provide social services directly, these local groups are taking proactive steps—with the City’s support—to develop solutions, as highlighted in the March 27 meeting.

Key Updates from Community Partners

• Appalachian Community Health Center (ACHC) will host a public event on July 19 at Elkins City Park, featuring speakers and free food to foster community engagement.
• Hooked on Fishing Not on Drugs (HOFNOD) will hold its annual youth outreach event on May 10, promoting healthy alternatives to substance use. Vendors and volunteers are encouraged to participate.
• Randolph County Housing Authority (RCHA) & Mountaineer Rental Assistance Program (MRAP) are intensifying efforts to assist the homeless population, including a “Second Chance Employment” meeting on May 1 to connect employers with individuals seeking workforce re-entry.
• Catholic Charities seeks volunteers to expand its support services for those in need.
• Family Resource Network (FRN) will host a Community Baby Shower on May 3 for families with infants and distribute updated resource guides for Child Abuse Awareness Month.
• St. Joseph’s Hospital announced an upcoming River Walk cleanup event and is planning a “Save a Life Day” in Buckhannon with kid-friendly activities to promote overdose awareness. They also invite community input on using opioid settlement funds for recovery, treatment, and prevention programs (submit ideas by June; call 304-473-2161).
• Wise Path Recovery Center will soon open a new facility in Monongalia County, expanding access to addiction recovery services.
• The REACH Initiative, a re-entry council for formerly incarcerated individuals, with monthly meetings chaired by Markie Jeffries.

City of Elkins – Led Initiatives 

• The Elkins City Council is drafting an ordinance requiring state certification for addiction recovery businesses operating within city limits, ensuring accountability and quality care. Discussions are ongoing about logistical implementation.
• Addressing Homelessness: While no current grants exist to fund direct shelter services, the city is exploring solutions, including potential partnerships to repurpose state-owned properties (e.g., the Children’s Home or Forestry Building) as shelters. Officials are also considering regulated encampments on private land, contingent on volunteer and grant support.

Next Steps: 

The Task Force will hold its next meeting on Thursday, April 25, at 1:00 p.m. at the Phil Gainer Community Center. Residents are encouraged to engage with participating organizations to volunteer or share ideas.

About the Regional Task Force on Addiction, Homelessness, and Mental Health:

Established in May 2021, this task force brings together local officials, law enforcement, and community organizations to address homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health needs; it meets monthly in Elkins, WV. The Task Force strives to identify gaps in services, coordinate resources, and implement sustainable solutions to these challenges in North Central West Virginia—including identifying peer recovery support specialists (PRSS), safe sober-living spaces, and expanded recovery facilities.