Putnam CARES Launches to Tackle Mental Health and Substance Use in Putnam County
A growing number of local voices have come together with a shared purpose: to make Putnam County a healthier, more supportive place to live. We’re proud to introduce Putnam CARES (Community Action for Recovery, Empowerment and Support) which is a new initiative focused on expanding mental health resources, reducing substance use, and building a stronger system of care throughout the county.
This initiative is backed by 40+ dedicated volunteers and community organizations, Putnam CARES is a united response to some of the most urgent issues facing our county.
Mental health and substance use challenges affect every corner of our community, but together, we can make a lasting change. In 2023, the Putnam County Community Foundation released a Community Needs Assessment, identifying what many residents already felt firsthand:
- 50% of county residents say addiction and drug use is a serious concern
- 37% believe there aren’t enough mental health treatment options or resources
As a response to this result, the Putnam County Community Foundation (PCCF) initiated conversations with community members and organizations to launch Putnam CARES. This initiative brings together community voices to improve access to care, eliminate stigma, and strengthen support systems.
The four overarching goals of this initiative include:
- Improving Access and Recovery – Reduce substance use and improve access to mental health resources by responding directly to the community’s most urgent needs.
- Eliminating Stigma – Eliminate stigma surrounding mental health and substance use through education, marketing, and community storytelling.
- Coordinated Support – Strengthen community support systems by developing a coordinated referral network, training Community Navigators, and building a centralized Resource Hub.
- Sustainable Solutions – Foster long-term, community-driven solutions by uniting local organizations under a shared initiative that aims to become a standalone entity dedicated to recovery, access, and equity in care.
This is not just another program – it’s a collaborative movement. Community partners participating in Putnam CARES include, but are not limited to organizations across healthcare, education, justice, and social services. While PCCF initiated this effort, its work now lie in the hands of the passionate volunteers who make up its members.
Putnam CARES is just getting started and you’re invited to be part of the journey. If you or someone you may know is interested please contact Sarah Stone at sstone@pcfoundation.org or attend our next public meeting on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at 11:00am at Putnam County Hospital.
Together, we can build a future where every Putnam County resident has access to the care, connection, and hope they deserve.
Annie Coniglio, Contributing Author