Steps to Recovery, a New Port Richey nonprofit established in 2006 by Marilyn Matyus, is significantly expanding its services for veterans recovering from substance use disorder. The organization currently operates with fifty beds and plans to launch a new facility this September, which will increase total capacity to eighty beds. Matyus founded the group after arriving in the area and finding no resources available for homeless veterans. Statistics indicate that over ten percent of all veterans suffer from substance use disorders, with alcohol being the most common addiction followed by illegal drugs. Richard Lovett, a former Army veteran who worked in the Florida National Guard, shared his personal story of homelessness and addiction before finding sobriety through the program. He has maintained sobriety for eighteen months and now employs the organization while hoping his journey encourages others to seek help. The upcoming facility will offer more private rooms designed as a second step for veterans continuing their recovery process. A recent University of South Florida study highlighted the high number of Pasco County residents struggling with substance use disorders while noting insufficient funding for specialized veteran treatment programs.
Pasco Nonprofit Expands Capacity to Support Veterans in Substance Recovery
