Senator Chris Johnson will discuss legislative actions on the growing drug addiction crisis in Maine and the moves to bring Operation HOPE to Lincoln County when Democrats meet on Monday, Jan. 18. Although final figures for 2015 were not available at press time, drug-related deaths in Maine are expected to be more than ever before, topping the 57 such deaths in 2014. Drug-related crime is skyrocketing as well.

The HOPE program focuses on getting people who come forward into treatment rather than arresting them for possession. It has been very successful in Gloucester, Massachusetts and more recently in Scarborough. Since Scarborough’s program began last October, 95 people with substance abuse disorder have gotten treatment instead of jail time.

Senator Johnson will talk about the need for HOPE in Lincoln County, groups that are working together to bring about its implementation, what needs to be done, and how individuals can get involved and work to help ensure its success.

The meeting will be held at the Community Room at the Newcastle Fire Station on River Road. A social gathering will run from 6:30 to 7 p.m., and the meeting starts at 7. Refreshments will be available.

A food basket will be available for donations of non-perishables or cash contributions for a Lincoln County food bank.

For more information about the Lincoln County Democratic Committee, please visit its website, www.lincolncountydemocrats.com, or Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/lincolncountydems.