100 recovery backpacks to be distributed by Warren County Regional Jail

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Warren County Regional Jail is providing a helping hand to those in their recovery process.

The Barren River Area Development District Regional Office of Drug Control Policy assisted the Southern Kentucky Reentry Council to coordinate getting 100 recovery backpacks into the hands of those reentering the community after incarceration, drug rehabilitation and recovery, according to BRADD.

“The Backpack Program reflects our region’s commitment to supporting successful reentry. It continues to be one of the cornerstone projects of the Council. Providing basic necessities may seem simple, but it sends a powerful message — that every person deserves the opportunity to start again and move forward with dignity. We’re thankful for BRADD’s partnership that helps strengthen these efforts and expand our impact throughout the region,” said Serenda LoBue, community projects chair for the Southern Kentucky Reentry Council.

Each backpack holds basic needs, including shampoo, soap, razors, socks, pens, paper, feminine hygiene products, wipes and other toiletries, along with resource information for needs like food, shelter, employment and other support services, BRADD says.

In addition, the organization says the backpacks include NARCAN kits supplied by the Kentucky Opioid Response Effort.

“I’m grateful to be a part of a community effort that supports individuals as they reenter our community and continue their recovery journey. Initiatives like the Recovery Backpack Program help remove immediate barriers and connect people with resources that support long-term recovery,” said Brooke Edwards, director of the Barren River Office of Drug Control Policy.

The Recovery Backpack program was created in 2015 to address the increasing challenges to reintegration to society after incarceration and rehabilitation. Since its inception, the program has provided at least 1,500 backpacks to those in need, contributing to a productive, safe reintegration to our communities.

The backpacks will be distributed by the Warren County Regional Jail.