Ohio Christian University Hosts Epidemic of Hope Event

Former Major League baseball great Darryl Strawberry and his wife Tracy joined Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine at Ohio Christian University in Circleville, Monday, February 26 in the new Ministry & Performing Arts Center to share their stories of hope for those struggling with drug addictions.

DeWine shared about his office’s outreach program that is engaging faith and law enforcement communities across Ohio, encouraging them to collaborate in combating the opioid epidemic that is harming Ohio residents.

The Strawberrys who are ordained Christian ministers and recovering drug addicts spoke about how faith was central to their recovery.  Both addressed how the "faith community" can play a vital role in solving the addiction crisis particularly by providing discipleship to those who are recovering.

Representatives from several faith-based recovery ministries participated in a panel discussion led by Rev. David Dean.  Attending church leaders learned about government and private service agencies with whom they can share in the efforts to restore residents suffering from additions and in recovery. 

Attorney General DeWine emphasized that the faith community’s participation is vital to ensuring recovery.  Ohio desires their support in achieving recovery from the crises.