Organizations launch program to combat youth opioid use

A group of organizations in the South Valley is coming together to tackle the opioid crisis among young people. This initiative, called the Clean Slate Program, aims to help youth overcome drug use. The program involves nine groups, including Schrank's Clubhouse and Tulare County Mental Health. Co-Founder Gwen Schrank noted a sharp increase in fentanyl use and related overdoses in recent years. She emphasized the importance of supporting families and youth in the community. The Clean Slate Program will officially launch on Wednesday. It will include outreach efforts across the county and provide resources at every Visalia Rawhide home game. The program focuses on three main areas: raising awareness through education, preventing drug use with early intervention, and supporting recovery through youth-specific groups. Schrank believes involving young people in creating the program will encourage their participation. She highlights the value of peer support, where those with experience help others who are struggling. The initiative hopes to extend its reach beyond the South Valley in the future.