News

New substance abuse hotline launched in Westmoreland County

WESTMORELAND COUNTY, Pa. — A new substance abuse hotline aimed at helping those battling addition launched in Westmoreland County Wednesday night.

Westmoreland Community Action is behind the hotline, which began operating at 7 p.m. Wednesday and will continue to operate seven days a week, 365 days a year, from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Organizers said the substance abuse helpline is meant to encourage those battling an addiction and their families to reach out for direction, answers and hope.

Trained professionals will be answering the phones, and a registered nurse will be available.

With drug overdoses the leading cause of death in Westmoreland County, community leaders said the new hotline is essential to combat the problem.

"No one has to die from an overdose today. I believe every drug overdose is preventable, and this is only one link of the chain. We can prevent people from losing their lives,” Tim Philips, director of the overdose task force, said.

The number for the hotline is 1-844-897-8927.