The Healing Network builds congregational ministries that support and provide resources for individuals and their families affected by substance use disorders. The ministries create prevention-committed and recovery-friendly communities within area congregations. This initiative is unique in its mission to bring issues of substance abuse and treatment into the ministry of Lutheran churches and other faith communities. It encourages practical ways for congregations to bring hope and healing to those affected by the crisis and underscores Jesus’s call to Christians to “heal the sick.”
Primary Focus Area: Building Congregational Capacity to Respond to the Opioid & Substance Use Disorders
Requesting Funding for "The Healing Network"
Program Budget: $91,128
Operating Budget: $671,375
Lutheran Affiliation: ELCA
Programs:
The Healing Network trains congregations in conjunction with Faith Partners, a Minneapolis-based organization founded in 1995 to provide a sustainable team approach to alcohol and drug issues for churches across diverse faith communities.
An Area Coordinator serves as the bridge between participating congregations, Faith Partners, and resources in the area. This person also facilitates sharing between congregations.
An important element of this work includes forming partnerships with state and local authorities, treatment and prevention specialists, and other agencies to create practical ways to bring hope and healing to people affected by opioid and substance misuse disorders.
Who is Served: The Healing Network serves all faith communities in the Greater Milwaukee area. In 2021, a record-setting 607 drug overdose deaths were documented in Milwaukee County, surpassing the previous high of 545 recorded the previous year, according to data provided by the Medical Examiner’s Office.
Location: S70W16244 Martin Dr, Muskego, WI 53150
Website: https://www.thehealingnetworkofmke.com/