The Harlan County Drug Summit brought people from all over the region together to discuss different ways they can combat the drug epidemic.

One of the organizations represented was Operation UNITE. CEO Nancy Hale said the summit was a representation of what their mission is. Which is getting people from all angles together for one purpose, to help stop drug abuse and facilitate recovery.

Experts talked about how the epidemic stems from opioid, methamphetamine, and heroin addictions. Which is something police see every day.

Harlan Police Chief, Winston Yeary says while it is prevalent here, it is a nation-wide problem.

“We see it here in the mountains I guess because we’re smaller communities, everyone knows everyone,” Yeary continued. “It’s a huge epidemic. And, you just don’t see it in your face as much in other parts of the country.”

Topics brought up at the summit to possibly lessen the effects of those drugs were helping addicts get careers, transitional housing and different means of treatment. Others included faith-based treatment and how the problem is being handled in courts and jails.

If you or a family member needs help with either addiction or the effects it has contact 1-833-8KY-HELP.