Berks County Opioid Settlement Funds – Click here to learn more or apply
In recognition of The Great American Smoke Out on November 16, 2023 our Prevention Specialists are hosting COCA’s 2nd Annual No Nicotine November Traveling Quit Kit Tour!
Every September, we celebrate Recovery Month with events and activities that recognize the achievements of individuals who have reclaimed their lives in long-term recovery.
SOS Berks held a Recovery Simulation Event on April 20 that brought out nearly 80 people.
We’ve launched a new media campaign that seeks to educate Berks County youth about the risks of vaping.
The Council on Chemical Abuse helps raise awareness about the dangers of buying lottery tickets for children.
View this year’s Annual Report for our financial information and to find highlights on our projects and programs.
The Council on Chemical Abuse has partnered with the Reading Royals to promote the John R. Elliot HERO Campaign for Designated Drivers®.
Executive Director Stanley J. Papademetriou has announced his decision to retire in December after 35 years with COCA.
The Council on Chemical Abuse staff attend numerous health fairs throughout Berks County where we provide the community with resources for substance use prevention, treatment and recovery.
The PA Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) recently highlighted the increased prevalence of alcohol misuse and available treatment options for alcohol use disorder.
Marijuana has changed greatly over the last 50 years. It is a powerful drug, far stronger than it was in the 1970s, with the potential for serious consequences.
An unusually high number of overdoses were reported over the weekend of 4/10 due to a toxic mix of heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine.
Older adults often confront physical and social changes that can increase their vulnerability to substance misuse.
The Council on Chemical Abuse held its first hybrid conference on Nov. 4, 2021.
COCA celebrated Red Ribbon Week 2021 by providing red ribbons and educational programs free to Berks County schools.
The Great American Smoke Out challenges Americans to quit tobacco on the 3rd Thursday of November.
No amount of alcohol is safe to drink during pregnancy. Check out our fun, fall mocktail recipes.
The District Attorney has issued a public health alert in response to over 100 reported overdoses that required medical attention during the weekend of Sept. 11 in Berks.
Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) Secretary Jen Smith recently visited Reading Hospital – Tower Health to highlight the success of the Warm Handoff program.
The Council on Chemical Abuse has introduced a new Stigma Reduction Toolkit for Berks County Media and Communications Professionals.
On August 4, Governor Tom Wolf signed his 15th renewal of PA’s Opioid Disaster Declaration
Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro’s press conference at the Berks RISE Center in April, highlighting the state’s Law Enforcement Treatment Initiative program.
After many years at our former location, we are pleased to announce that the COCA offices have moved to a new Reading location.
The Great American Smoke Out challenges Americans to quit tobacco.
The Council on Chemical Abuse is currently offering Berks County families FREE medication lock boxes and medication disposal bags. Offer valid while supplies last.
