The National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) announced a relief effort valued at over $5 million to provide primary inpatient beds and addiction treatment for the thousands of victims of Hurricane Katrina. Many victims who are facing withdrawal or are in need of ongoing treatment services are in shelters where there are no facilities and do not have resources available to them.

NAATP will coordinate the relief effort with HopeNetworks.org, a grassroots organization founded in Louisiana in 2002, networks people and organizations for action to reduce the impact of addiction on communities.

HopeNetworks is known for mobilizing efforts for Louisiana addiction recovery policy efforts, rallies, and outreach and education in local areas across the state.

According to Samantha Hope Atkins, Executive Director and Founder of HopeNetworks.org, "We are in a state of emergency in terms of getting treatment help to thousands of people in shelters throughout Louisiana. Prior to Hurricane Katrina, there were only 32 Detox beds available for a population
of 4 million people. Today, there are less than 10 available to serve those who are suffering from severe withdrawal symptoms and do not have access to treatment and counseling from the shelters. In Louisiana currently 99% of all treatment services are currently federally or state-funded and given the
magnitude of the Katrina crisis there is a need for new funding help as federal resources are stretched."

NAATP's President and CEO, Dr. Ronald J. Hunsicker, stated, "When a crisis of this magnitude hits, and there is no funding available, it's critical for the private sector to take action. I am proud that so many of the private treatment centers like Caron Foundation, Betty Ford Center, and others have
come forward to donate over 100 treatment beds and airfare amounting to several million dollars of life saving alcohol and drug inpatient treatment as well as potential longer term treatment to the victims of this disaster.

Any treatment centers wishing to become part of this initiative should log onto http://www.hopenetworks.org and complete the online form or call toll-free 866-859-3513. Contact may also be made to NAATP at http://www.naatp.org.