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YOUNGSTOWN -- Meridian HealthCare recently relocated one of its primary care facilities to a new -- but familiar -- location, the Judge Joseph Donofrio Center. Its grand opening was accompanied by Meridian's annual Health and Wellness Fair.
While Meridian Healthcare mainly focuses on treating substance abuse, the Donofrio Center will offer a range of medical services available to the community.
"We don't just serve our patient population that are here getting help for treatment, we serve the entire community," said Tarah Lattanzio, the center's director. "We primarily do drug and alcohol treatment, but over the years we've evolved to be able to provide integrated care and treat the whole person."
Other prevention program services include "Hidden in Plain Sight," an education program about substance abuse in young people.
"It's to educate parents, or anyone who's a caregiver of a teen usually, on some red flags that they might see in their kid's room for substance use," said Jasmine Phillips, lead prevention specialist.
The Donofrio Center, 550 W. Chalmers Ave, also provides housing for up to 40 patients. They have access to the center's amenities and services.
"Anyone who's struggling with addiction or mental health needs, along with some other disabilities," said Darla Gallagher, Meridian vice president. "[Those] that are homeless and have been formerly homeless are eligible for our program.
"What's nice about Meridian housing is we have counselors, case managers and doctors who work with individuals on a continuum of treatment while they're here. So, not only do we provide safe, affordable clean housing, we also provide the services to go with it."
Meridian is waiting for approval from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to expand its bed capacity.