BestSelf’s Recovery Community continues to support those in recovery through the holidays

BestSelf’s Recovery Community continues to support those in recovery through the holidays

Gathering at the dinner table during the holidays is a time to enjoy a meal with the right company. But sometimes, people have nothing but empty seats surrounding them.

It’s not only lonely, but can be detrimental to those recovering from an addiction.

“The holidays are very important. It’s one of the highest times where we have overdoses,” said Mona Lisa McEachin, assistant program director at BestSelf’s Recovery Community. “A lot of the time people don’t have anyone to spend time with. Yeah, you burnt a bridge but you don’t have anyone. So, it’s important you have a plan of escape. Come here, let us support you.”

It’s why for the second year in a row, BestSelf’s Recovery Community at 69 Linwood Avenue is holding a Thanksgiving dinner for those needing someone to lean on during the holiday. The Recovery Community is a safe space providing non-clinical support and community to those recovering from drug and alcohol addiction, and assistance to those grieving a loved one who died from an addiction.

“They see us as family so it’s a time to share some love, share some stories and eat some good food,” McEachin said. “It’s really a blessing we’re able to do this dinner. (The people here are) just trying to find a place they feel safe, brave, where they don’t feel judgement, no stigma. A place where they can acclaim their recovery whatever that may be to them.”

All of the food is being provided by TLC Catering. McEachin says everyone who comes to the dinner is in a different stage of recovery including herself. It was 14 years ago she finally got ahold of her own battle with addiction and sought help.

“I’m personally in long-term recovery, used for 20 years… dinner is still important to me. Not missing a dinner with the family. You know how many dinners I missed? I don’t miss them anymore,” McEachin said.

“My kids want me there, my sister, my family and that’s a feeling that’s irreplaceable. It boosts your pride, it boosts your ego. For the first time, people want you around, so yeah, dinner is very important.”

When there is nothing but empty seats around the dinner table, it’s not time to use again. It’s time to fill those seats with the right support.

“As we get older, we get to create our own family. It’s going to be the people who are going to be there for you no matter what. So, in that moment, if we can be the family you chose to spend dinner with, we’re going to be just that here at the Recovery Community Center.” McEachin said.

“It’s a blessing for me to be there for others. Somebody was there for me… a judge once told me no one ever climbs Mount Everest alone. We all need somebody.”

To become a part of BestSelf’s Recovery Community and learn more, click here.