Harrisburg, PA – Today, the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) joined individuals in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD), recovery community organizations, local state legislators, and others for an afternoon of events to officially kick off National Recovery Month in Pennsylvania.
National Recovery Month is an annual recognition that is observed throughout the month of September to highlight the gains made in the lives of individuals living in recovery and show that people can and do recover every day. It is estimated that millions of Americans are recovering from SUD, including thousands of Pennsylvanians. The 2025 National Recovery Month theme is “Recovery is REAL: Restoring Every Aspect of Life.”
“September is a time to celebrate that people can and do recover from the disease of addiction,” said DDAP Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones. “We are amplifying the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to supporting recovery efforts and making recovery resources more equitable across Pennsylvania throughout this month and beyond. At the crux of our efforts is the loud-and-clear message that no one is alone on their personal journey to recovery and wellness.”
Today’s event, Recovery Out Loud, centered on the importance of wellness in individuals’ recovery journeys and power in sharing personal recovery stories. It featured Edith Cook, who has been in long-term recovery from SUD for 29 years. Cook owns and operates a DDAP-licensed recovery house for women – A New Tomorrow - in Harrisburg that also provides reintegration services for justice-impacted women.
“This event marks a statement that we do recover,” said Cook. “I am elated that National Recovery Month is being recognized by everyone coming together, and that is the true meaning of recovery.”
“Recovery is happening every day across our communities. National Recovery Month reminds each of us that walking the path of recovery requires resources and support,” said Senator Patty Kim. “I remain committed to advancing programs and initiatives that meet people where they are and help them build the lives they envision for themselves and their families.”
“Substance use disorder is a battle that affects entire families and touches every corner of our community, and no one is immune to its effects,” said Representative Nate Davidson. “As a community, we must not only support those who are struggling but also celebrate those in long-term recovery. Their journey exemplifies strength and resilience, and they should be incredibly proud of what they have overcome.”
Commitment to Recovery
The Shapiro Administration’s commitment to empowering sustained recovery can be found in both the DDAP recovery house licensure program and regional recovery hubs initiative.
Currently, there are about 400 DDAP-licensed recovery houses across the Commonwealth. Licensed recovery houses are eligible to receive funding and referrals from public sources. The purpose of the licensure program is to help empower sustained recovery for thousands of individuals with SUD by ensuring a network of safe drug and alcohol recovery houses across the Commonwealth. Individuals can find a listing of licensed recovery houses on DDAP’s website.
There are nine regional recovery hubs, funded by DDAP, across the state. The hubs are designed to embed, expand, and promote a Recovery-Oriented System of Care, which is a coordinated network of community-based services and supports that are person-centered, with the ultimate goal of improving the health, wellness, and quality of life for individuals in recovery from SUD.
DDAP Recovery Month Events
Throughout September, DDAP will be holding several other Recovery Month events, including:
- DDAP and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources have identified a corresponding trail or waterway within a state park or trail system near each regional recovery hub. All locations are recommended for Pennsylvanians to use and enjoy throughout the month of September and beyond.
- In addition, on Thursday, September 11, the Armstrong Indiana Clarion Drug & Alcohol Commission, Inc., which is DDAP’s Region 7 recovery hub, will be hosting a guided hike and recovery-related event to celebrate Recovery Month at the Sinnemahoning State Park.
- Thursday, September 23, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Soldier’s Grove, Harrisburg
- DDAP is closing out Recovery Month with Recovery in Reach, the agency’s Recovery Month Wellness and Resource Fair focused on connection and healing with wellness activities, helpful resources, and a celebration of support.
Learn more about the Shapiro Administration’s recovery initiatives, resources, and additional Recovery Month events across the state on DDAP’s website.
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