Newaygo County is a very rural location that has few resources and services--as well as low funding for services--available to its community members. There are difficulties accessing the few available resources, as there is no public transportation available throughout the county. In April 2022, there was an increased community awareness regarding the rise of substance use disorder and overdoses in the county. Many citizens reached out to local law enforcement departments and expressed interest in how to most appropriately support this cause.

The four local police chiefs--from Grant Police Department, Fremont Police Department, Newaygo Police Department, and White Cloud Police Department--came together to discuss the amount of concern being brought to their attention regarding the proliferation of substance use disorder and overdoses. The chiefs were overwhelmed with the amount of community support they were receiving and wanted to find a solution. At this same time, Ferris State University contacted Newaygo Police Chief Georgia Andres and asked to share information about a program called Hope Not Handcuffs. Chief Andres, White Cloud Chief Evans, Police Social Worker Nicole Klomp, and other community members met with the Michigan Regional Coordinator of Hope Not Handcuffs, Jestine Garcia, in May 2022. It was agreed to bring this initiative to the community as a starting point for addressing substance use disorder.

Ms. Klomp was made the point of contact for the PDs, to aid them in developing and implementing this program. She, alongside Ms. Garcia (who is also a resident of Newaygo County), discussed restarting a Families Against Narcotics chapter for the county as another accessible service for those seeking help and educational opportunities. Implementing a FAN chapter would also provide a public resource to help people learn about and navigate substance use disorder, share their experiences, and hear feedback from the citizens. Ms. Klomp and Ms. Garcia invited multiple agencies and members of the community to informational meetings regarding Hope Not Handcuffs and FAN. The overall conclusion and feedback from attendees was positive and supportive of a Newaygo FAN chapter.

Together, Ms. Klomp and Ms. Garcia began gathering names and making contact with community members from various professions in the community. Due to their positive relationships and connections throughout the community, they was able to bring together the local probate judge, school officials, police chiefs, licensed social workers, hospital staff and administration, and those involved in substance use disorder treatment services. Many involved have had personal experiences with family members, are in recovery, or have expressed interest in participating for other reasons, such as giving back to the community. Newaygo County is clearly very passionate about this cause and is working hard toward creating a safe and healthy solution to combat this disease and support those in need.