WILMINGTON – First responders are often the “unsung heroes” of the opiate crisis. That’s why Mental Health Recovery Services of Warren & Clinton Counties (MHRS) is joining other boards across Ohio this week to say thanks during First Responder Appreciation Week. The celebration statewide goes through Sunday, May 5.

“First responders have seen a lot as we’ve moved through the opiate crisis,” said John Cummings, MHRS Director of Communications. “They have worked tirelessly to save lives and help move many people who have survived overdose into treatment, opening the door to recovery. While we can never truly repay them for all they have done, we still want them to know their work doesn’t go unnoticed.”

The focus of this year’s Appreciation Week is emergency personnel. MHRS staff will be visiting area hospitals including Clinton Memorial Hospital in Wilmington, Atrium Medical Center in Middletown, and Kettering Health Network’s Emergency facility in Franklin.

EMTs, fire and police will also receive tokens of thanks.

In addition to emergency room and fire and police visits, MHRS will also promote first responders on social media. The board is also planning a first responder self-care workshop for late May in Lebanon.