If we don't take action IMMEDIATELY, on July 1 the Virginia Department of Behavioral Hralth and Developmental Services (DBHDS) intends to eliminate the Office of Recovery Services (ORS).

It also intends to defund the Virginia Association of Recovery Residences with no replacement plan until next year for funding indigent beds.

And this year's cohort of the Virginia Recovery Corps was dismissed two months early, including forfeiting a pro rated share of their promised educational benefit.

Despite what DBHDS officials have said in several public events, this is not just a bureaucratic reshuffle; it is a direct assault on years of advocacy and a profound disservice to every Virginian, especially those of us (and our allies) in sustained recovery from a variety of mental health, substance use, and developmental challenges who have dedicated our lives to improving the care people we love receive.

Please support the best of Wellness and Recovery in Virginia by signing all 3 letters at the right. (Sorry - they have to be split up by recipients. See below for which goes to each if you are interested).

Thank you! We need you to take action now by clicking on all 3 actions to the right.

Your Virginia Recovery Advocacy Project State Organizing Team

Letter 1 - The Governor, Secretary of Health and Human Resources, Commissioner of DBHDS and his senior staff, and the Va Assoc of Community Services Boards (VACSB)

Letter 2 - The legislature's Behavioral Health Commission

Letter 3 -Both US Senators, your Member of Congress, your Delegate and your State Senator. Note: Sometimes you may be prompted for a subject of your email by their websites.