Mayor Joann Gattinelli discusses the disease of addiction, as well as the Washington Township and Gloucester County emergency response team
Community conversation on the disease of addiction
On Thursday, July 20, I attended U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross’s event to bring awareness to the drug epidemic and to share information on resources available to those struggling with addiction. Drug addiction has been an issue not only in Washington Township, but nationally as well. There were resource vendors set up in the lobby of the Washington Township High School, which provided people with support and care they may need. During the presentation, I was moved as I heard many stories of people who have been affected by this epidemic and I thought Norcross did a great job of leading the conversation.
There were many other dignitaries and guests involved with this event. Doctors, school administrators, drug enforcement officials, EMS, parent advocates and those in recovery were able to share their connections with the disease of addiction. As this epidemic grows, so does the number of lives lost. If we stand together, as a community, we can make a difference. It is extremely important we educate our community about the issues surrounding addiction to foster awareness and a strong sense of community. I believe it is important to support those struggling with addiction and those who know someone struggling with addiction.
OEM drill at Kennedy Health Care Center
On July 20, I also saw the Washington Township emergency management personnel in action during the OEM drill with Kennedy Health Care Center. A drill like this is important because it allows us to be prepared in the event of an emergency. The first responders did a phenomenal job, and it allowed me to see all the different people and teams who come together to ensure our residents are safe. In addition to Kennedy Health Care Center and our OEM personnel, the organizations involved included the Washington Township Police Department, Washington Township Ambulance and Rescue Association, and the Washington Township Fire District. Also participating from Gloucester County were the Department of Emergency Response, Office of Emergency Management, County Prosecutor’s Office, County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit and Bomb Squad.
This drill helped assess Kennedy Health Care Center’s emergency response plan, and gave our first responders emergency drill practice in the event of a real emergency. It was amazing to see how quickly each unit responded and knew exactly how to handle the situation. I was happy to hear positive feedback from the county and am proud of how quickly, intelligently and professionally all of our Washington Township emergency personnel can respond in these situations. I have always been confident in our first responders, and attending this drill gave me even more confidence our first responders are top notch and are always looking for ways to improve public safety in Washington Township.
Joann Gattinelli is the mayor of Washington Township. She can be reached at mayorgattinelli@twp.washington.nj.us.
