Columbiana County’s mental health levy supports many

Columbiana County’s mental health levy supports many

I write this letter as the Pres- ident of the Board of the Counseling Center of Columbiana County, an agency which provides mental health and substance abuse treatment services for the residents of Columbiana County. This is an appeal to the voters to continue to care for those whose lives are disrupted by emotional problems or alcohol and drug dependence. This may be you, your family members, your neighbors, or your friends. For 45 years, our services have been here as a safety net in times of trouble.

Many thousands in this county have regained normal lives because they were able to get the help of experienced mental health and addiction professionals. Many lives have been saved from the threat of suicide. Men and women have returned to work after recovering from serious life problems. Children have been able to go to school and live with their families when serious emotional problems were making a normal childhood impossible. These events occurred because the services, and the community, were there in support.

The 1.3 mill mental health levy was first passed in 1985. It is a 10-year renewal levy — no new taxes. It is clear that this community cares for its own. Most of the services made possible by levy support are not easily available except through our agencies. We rely strongly on the support of the community, and we work closely with the community to support those in need.

Please join your neighbors in support of the 1.3 mill Mental Health and Recovery renewal levy.

Robert S. McCulloch III, Salem