Minority women receive free services at Renz Center

Minority women in need of substance abuse treatment can now receive free trauma informed services through Renz Addiction Counseling Center's "Sisters Unite in Preventing and Protecting Ourselves by Recovering Together" program.

SUPPORT, specifically geared for minority women age 18 and older, offers substance abuse treatment, mental health counseling, psychiatric services, case management, a recovery coach, HIV testing and counseling, parenting support and education, free child care, access to transportation assistance and other supportive services to decrease barriers to treatment and increase their ability to begin recovery.

The SUPPORT program is made possible due to federal Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration funding.

"The impact of trauma on women and the lack of access to integrated substance abuse treatment, mental health and primary health care, HIV prevention and other support services can create a barrier to requesting or receiving help," said Colleen Koncilja, director of clinical services and SUPPORT project director. "The SUPPORT program fits this need."

The program is a collaboration between local agencies including Renz Center, Breaking Free Inc., and the Community Crisis Center. The SUPPORT program utilizes evidence-based practices to provide effective, compassionate services through a teamwork approach. Program services are free to eligible minority women and are offered in both English and Spanish. SUPPORT services are offered at Renz Center in Elgin and Breaking Free in Aurora.

To schedule an appointment at Renz Center, call (847) 742-3545, or Breaking Free at (630) 897-1003.

Renz Center provides a continuum of care dedicated to the prevention, intervention and treatment of addictive behaviors related to alcohol, drugs, and gambling. Services range from prevention programs for youth in the schools to outpatient treatment programs for adolescents and adults. Priority is given to pregnant women and women with dependent children. Offices are in Elgin, St. Charles and Streamwood.

Renz Addiction Counseling Center is a nonprofit organization funded in part by the federal government, Central Kane County United Way, the Illinois Department of Human Services, Hanover Township, Geneva, and St. Charles 708 boards and other local community organizations. To find out more about Renz Center's programs, call (847) 742-3545 or visit www.renzcenter.org.