1) Overdose Deaths Down Again and 2) Planning our Holiday Party

[Julie Hook]

1)

Big News: The total number of overdose deaths in Missouri decreased by 26% in 2024.  And deaths in Franklin County were down 40% in 2024.  The work is paying off, folks.  Read more about the 2024 Addiction Science Team's report in the Missourian's recent issue here, and check out all the details at the link I've included below. 

Missouri Overdose Information — MIMH Addiction Science

2)

Family Holiday Party Planning Begins

Once again this year, HOPE is hosting the Family Holiday Party for children and teens who are impacted by the Foster Care System.  Our party will be held Friday, 12/5 from 3:30-6:00pm at the Franklin County Family Resource Center in Union.  Our partners at Children's Division, Lutheran Family and Children's Services, Every Child's Hope, CASA and other contracted agencies working with foster children will be promoting the party to their families and encouraging them to attend.  Last year we had 80 children (plus parents, foster parents, caseworkers and other caring adults) who joined us for some snacks, fun activities, and even visits with Santa! We're looking forward to another great party, but we need LOTS of volunteers!  

If you'd like to help at one of the stations, take a look at the attached list and let me know if you (and maybe a few of your friends or coworkers) would like to sign up!  We'll be talking about all the details at our November meeting-- Wednesday, 11/19/25, 5:30pm-6:30pm.  I'll send out the reminder along with a Zoom link in a week or so.  I'm sending out the party flyer too, but remember: this party is not for the general public, but focuses on those kids who are spending the holiday season with their foster families. 

Thanks everyone!

Julie Hook, Program Director HOPE for Franklin County Coalition 3033 Highway A, Suite 102 Washington, MO  63090 (office) 636.239.7652 (mobile) 636.485.4104