USAO Outreach Team Visits Melbourne Center for Personal Growth, operated by AMIkids Space Coast

This week, Assistant United States Attorney/MDFL Opioid Coordinator Dana Hill and Outreach Specialist Khalilah Escalera visited the Melbourne Center for Personal Growth, operated by AMIkids Space Coast to raise awareness about drug abuse and the dangers of opioid addiction. This private nonprofit, staff-secure residential facility operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week providing specialized health and treatment services to children involved with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice. 

AUSA Hill and Ms. Escalera, along with Tyna Baugess, Manager of Community Partnerships with the Peace Club (a local substance abuse and mental health program in Brevard County), watched the film “Chasing the Dragon: The Life of an Opiate Addict” with the students and staff. 

Following the film presentation, the group discussed the impact of the Opioid Epidemic in our district and across the nation. The presenters spoke with the students about the influence and consequences of substance abuse and identified available resources to combat drug abuse and addiction. The students were very engaged and had thoughtful questions and feedback for the presenters.