Catawba County News

Catawba County 101

Published: October 30, 2025

MAKING. LIVING. BETTER: Catawba County REACH (Resources for Addiction and Community Health)

What is its mission/purpose?
Catawba County (REACH) REsource for Addiction and Community Health is the Post Overdose Response Team (PORT) embedded within Catawba County EMS. REACH consists of Community Paramedics and Certified Peer Support Specialistswho “bridge the gaps” working to provide access to recovery resources and support those struggling with active addiction.

How do you achieve your mission – what services are offered?
REACH advocates for individuals where they are physically and emotionally after an overdose event or referral to connect the puzzle pieces when they are ready to start a personal pathway to recovery. REACH can assist in accessing detoxification, rehabilitation and in-patient treatment facilities and recovery housing. Community Paramedics provide Medication Assistance Treatment (MAT) and medical evaluations. Peer Support Specialists provide evidenced-based mental health model of care that promotes recovery, self determination, selfadvocacy, engagement in self-care and wellness.

Who does this department serve?
REACH serves those who have had an ambulance respond for an overdose. REACH helps them not only in the moment but after the initial event.

How and where are services delivered?
Wherever the patient is, they will go.

How many staff members are involved in delivering services?
4, 3 paramedics and 1 Peer Support Specialist.