MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — The Berkeley County Commission on Thursday committed a $200 thousand dollar match
to the city of Martinsburg’s efforts to establish an eight-bed “Sobering Center” in the city.
The county commission approved the 200-thousand dollars in Opioid Settlement funds to support the establishment of the city, according to
an announcement Thursday.
The Sobering Center is set to be located in EastRidge Health Services’ facility at 213-214 East John Street in Martinsburg.
The announcement explains, “The Sobering Center will provide care to individuals until they reach the point of sobriety or require a higher level of care.”
“For the last several years, Martinsburg Mayor Kevin Knowles has played a leading role in the community’s response to
the substance abuse crisis and this project is a testament to his commitment to helping people get on the road to
recovery,” according to Berkeley County Commission Vice President Eddie Gochenour.
“This 24/7 facility in collaboration with EastRidge Health Services will be a valuable tool for individuals addicted to
alcohol seeking treatment,” according to Martinsburg Mayor Kevin Knowles. “t will also be a resource in our law enforcement
officers’ response to situations involving non-violent, intoxicated individuals.”
“I want to thank my colleagues on City Council for supporting this initiative along with the County Commission for
matching the City Council’s $200,000 funding commitment for this project.”
The city and county funding commitments allow for the operational start-up of the eight-bed facility.
“The Sobering Center will assist in addressing the needs of those seeking treatment, and provide a path for treatment
options,” said Rita Quinn, President/CEO of EastRidge Health Systems.
“This additional support service in the Eastern Panhandle will provide a first step to recovery for individuals suffering
from alcohol abuse and will certainly be very beneficial to law enforcement and the healthcare system.”
