Thank you for taking the time to read our February recap. We want to extend our appreciation to our community partners, first responders, service providers, and dedicated ECO team for all of the hard work. Your continued collaboration and commitment make it possible for us to deliver recovery support and resources to individuals and families across Essex County.
Every outreach, referral, and follow-up reflects the collective effort behind this work. Whether the need is immediate or long-term, your partnership helps ensure that people know they are not alone and that support is always within reach.
If you know someone in Essex County who is seeking recovery services, or a family member who needs help supporting a loved one, please contact us at 978-961-7388.
RESOURCES AND SERVICES DATA FEBRUARY 2026
Throughout February, ECO worked closely with local police departments and community partners to provide recovery-focused services to both housed and unhoused residents throughout Essex County. Below is a snapshot of our activity for the month.
Rides Provided: 16
Transportation remains a major barrier for many individuals seeking treatment or recovery supports. ECO offers rides to recovery-related destinations including detox facilities, inpatient and outpatient programs, medical appointments, hospitals, court appearances, AA/NA meetings, and more. Please note that our voucher program is currently paused.
Sober Living Scholarships Provided 2025-2026: 70
As of February 2026, ECO has supported 70 unique individuals with sober living scholarships, totaling $35,250 in awarded funds throughout 2025.
We are deeply grateful to our sober home partners for their ongoing dedication to maintaining safe, supportive, and recovery-centered living environments for those taking critical steps forward in their recovery journeys.
Outreaches Conducted: 197
ECO Recovery Coaches conducted 197 outreaches during February. Outreach efforts take place in a variety of settings, including street-based outreach, shelters and transitional housing, community events and service projects, alongside local police departments, and other community-based locations.
Clients Who Accepted Services: 134
Out of the 197 in-person outreaches conducted in February, 134 individuals accepted services. This figure does not capture individuals who initially declined services but later reconnected with ECO weeks or months afterward. We see this outcome frequently as trust and readiness develop over time.
Follow-Ups and Client Engagements: 348
Following initial outreach, ECO places strong emphasis on continued engagement. Our Recovery Coaches conduct follow-ups to ensure individuals are successfully connected to treatment, housing, benefits, recovery supports, and other essential services.
In February, ECO recorded 348 follow-ups and client engagements. This number reflects each individual interaction, meaning a single client may account for multiple engagements. Long-term connection remains a cornerstone of our approach, and many clients continue working with ECO well beyond their first contact.
Please note that the data above represents estimates intended to provide a general snapshot and may not account for all activity.
FEBRUARY EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
ECO had a busy month of events, and we are grateful for the many opportunities to connect with local police departments, community partners, and residents. What you’ll see below are just a few highlights from the month. There’s much more we’ve been up to! For additional events, updates, and news, be sure to visit our Facebook page.
Salem PD and ECO Talk at NAGLY | Essex County | February 2026
In February, ECO partnered with the Salem Police Department to host a community conversation at North Shore Alliance of GLBTQ Youth (NAGLY).
The discussion focused on substance use, mental health, and the unique challenges faced by young people. Together, we created a space for open dialogue, education, and connection, encouraging honest conversations around topics that are often stigmatized or misunderstood.
Participants had the opportunity to ask questions, share perspectives, and engage with both ECO staff and local law enforcement in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Conversations like these are essential in breaking down barriers, building trust, and ensuring that young people feel seen, heard, and supported.
ECO remains committed to meeting individuals where they are and continuing to partner with community organizations to promote awareness, prevention, and access to care.
Understanding Addiction Series | Essex County | February 2026
ECO has been actively participating in the 6-week Understanding Addiction series led by Michelle Simons and Gina Rabbitt, sponsored by the Swampscott Health Department and Marblehead Health Department.
Throughout the series, our team has had the opportunity to deepen our understanding of addiction, recovery, and the intersection of mental health. Each session created space for honest conversation, education, and reflection, reinforcing the importance of meeting individuals where they are and approaching this work with empathy and openness.
This series brought together individuals from a variety of backgrounds, including those in recovery, those supporting loved ones, and community members looking to better understand substance use. Being part of these conversations continues to strengthen ECO’s commitment to informed, compassionate care and meaningful community connection.