McDowell Impact, McDowell County's first-ever peer support program, is an innovative, multiagency collaboration utilizing peer support specialists to promote and support recovery. Funded by Kate B. Reynolds Charity Trust, the program is in its second year and comes to CareReach from its original home, McDowell Mission Ministries.

McDowell Impact supports individuals across McDowell County who struggle with substance use and co-occurring challenges like infectious disease, family separation, chronic homelessness and overdose. Our certified peer support specialists help their community navigate recovery and access resources to keep them safe, healthy and connected.

Peer Supports are co-located at:

  • McDowell Mission Ministries to reduce homelessness by supporting those transitioning into permanent housing from homelessness and promoting their independence.
  • McDowell County Department of Social Services to support families at risk for foster care placement and to increase the number of families reunified.
  • McDowell County EMS- Community Paramedic Program to support those who have experienced overdose, or are at high risk of overdose, and to increase access to treatment and immediate support.
  • McDowell Access to Care and Health (MATCH) to connect those diagnosed with infectious diseases, including Hepatitis C, to appropriate and effective treatment.

We are thrilled to have this amazing team of individuals join us and are grateful for the opportunity to support people on the journey toward recovery. For more information, visit our website: http://carereachnc.org/programs-and-services/peer-support-services/mcdowell-impact