WAUKESHA, Wis. — Addiction and substance abuse is something many in Wisconsin struggle with.
In 2022, nearly 1,500 people died from opioid related deaths in Wisconsin. That is almost a 19% increase from 2020, according to data from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
Project WisHope is one of the many organizations working to get people into recovery and on a better path.
The organization partnered with Apricity, a recovery program based out of the Appleton area, to create the Recovery 180 app.
Ryan Rehak is the director of engagement for Project WisHope. He has been with the organization for years and has seen the growth firsthand.
It has expanded to two more community centers and now with an app to create a farther reach than ever before.
“Having this app, and being able to access it anywhere, anytime across the state and you are looking for help,” Rehak said. “You can get it on the spot.”
The Recovery 180 app allows access to a coach and many resources at all hours and days of the week. You can chat via text, phone call or video call to seek help whenever needed.
And it’s all free.
“This opportunity to just be like ‘we are statewide,’” Rehak said. “Anyone looking for help can get that help. It’s mind boggling to me. Seeing people that have already used the app and have reached out for resources. Knowing the impact that is going to have as it grows, I couldn’t be happier. It’s incredible.”
Peter Vandercreek is a new recovery coach at WisHope. He is now seven years sober and went through programming at WisHope himself.
He said he’s excited to be able to help others begin their journey and be available on this new app.
“Giving back is the whole nature of recovery,” he said.
The app will allow people in more rural areas to have access to addiction and substance use services like never before. WisHope and Apricity have locations across the state but cannot reach everyone who needs help.
This app will allow these organizations to have a larger reach and be able to provide access to care and resources with the click of a button.
“To be able to have 24/7 access to someone, it’s a wonderful thing,” Vandercreek said. “I also like that is not as intimidating as making a phone call. You can just chat with someone. It’s low pressure. In the beginning it can be terrifying,”
The app has an interactive map so a user can see what resources are available around them. It can provide resources for basic needs like food and housing, and also more specific needs when it comes to treatment and recovery.
“With this app, I think it is going to save so many lives,” Rehak said.
WisHope said they are excited to be able to expand across the state in this way and be able to reach people in need where they are.