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March 27, 2024WMHT Public Media Announces Premier of ‘Opioids in NY: Stories and Solutions’ Examining New York’s Opioid Epidemic
WMHT Public Media, a multichannel public communications organization serving Eastern New York and Western New England, today announced the premier of an original one-hour program examining one of New York’s most pressing issues: the opioid epidemic. Opioids in NY: Stories and Solutions, presented across multiple media platforms and available to public broadcasting partners statewide, explores the addiction and overdose crisis that has devastated families and communities across the state.
Opioids in NY: Stories and Solutions will debut on Monday, April 1 at 10 p.m. on WMHT and online at wmht.org/opioids, with rebroadcasts on Wednesday, April 3 at 5 p.m. and Thursday, April 4 at 4 a.m. Hosted by Rachel Breidster, the program includes conversations with New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham, law enforcement personnel, certified recovery peer advocates, and individuals currently in recovery.
In addition, 10 individual video segments are now available online, along with links to local and regional substance use programs and resources. These reports, produced by WMHT over the past year as part of a multi-platform series, feature a collection of stories on New York’s approach to fighting the scourge of opioid addiction. They highlight the people and organizations on the front lines of preventing overdoses and supporting recovery from substance use.
“As a public media organization, WMHT is keenly focused on providing insight and perspective in tackling the important issues facing our communities, region and state,” said Anthony V. Hayes, President and CEO of WMHT Public Media. “In sharing powerful stories that examine the causes and costs of New York’s opioid epidemic, along with programs that offer support and hope, we are determined to educate, engage, and empower our audience to overcome this challenge.”
The development of Opioids in NY: Stories and Solutions is designed to address and stem the tide of opioid overdose fatalities, helping audiences understand New York’s shift from abstinence-only recovery to harm-reduction approaches, and building awareness around resources that provide paths to treatment, help and hope.
“This is vitally important information we all need to learn, that hope and resources exist to help people overcome the isolation and suffering of addiction,” said Will Pedigo, Vice President and Chief Content & Engagement Officer at WMHT. “WMHT is proud to provide a platform for this discussion and grateful to the people who have shared their stories with us over the past year.”
Viewers will learn about New York’s 24/7 substance use and gambling HOPE line, which can be reached toll-free at 1-877-8-HOPENY (467369) or by texting HOPENY (467369). That confidential statewide resource can help callers find local recovery support in their community.
For more information on Opioids in NY: Stories and Solutions, visit wmht.org/opioids.
