Friday, August 14, 2026
Addiction: A Rural Reality

Addiction: A Rural Reality

The opioid epidemic is costing communities big bucks. From private businesses to county governments, on down to the individual, no one is untouched.
A black and white image of an addict, dead beneath a sheet, arm outstretched, pills in the palm of their lifeless hand and littering the floor near their hand.

This special report focuses on the opioid crisis in rural Ohio and Pennsylvania. It was written to raise awareness, dispel myths and share solutions.
Pills, Fentynal Powder, and Heroin syringe sit on a table

Addiction: A Rural Reality shares stories from three rural counties with high rates of overdose deaths. Get the facts and figures behind our coverage.

It would be nice if we could simply stop using opioids, but it's more complicated than that. Learn more about when opioid therapy should be utilized.

Following his own recovery, Jon Black works to disrupt the deadly cycle of opioid addiction by dedicating himself to sobriety and counseling others.
A diverse group of people sit and talk during a group counseling session.

In rural counties, detoxification and rehabilitation centers can be scarce. Learn more about how to get help in Guernsey, Huron and Lawrence counties.
Three volunteer North Beaver Firefighters and Rescue workers stand in front of their station.

The North Beaver Volunteer Fire Department feels the impact of the opioid epidemic. Responding to more and more drug-related calls, it’s stretched thin.

After losing her daughter to opioid addiction, Tonda DaRe searched for solutions. Two years and many conferences later, she started Holly’s Song of Hope.

Learn how the medical field played a role in the spread of the opioid epidemic and the astonishing facts that plague our communities today.

Learn more about actions individuals, organizations and local, state or federal governments can take to help stop the opioid crisis.