Surry County, NC
Surry County Government
north carolina
Rural | Population: 71,462Surry County, North Carolina, with a rural population of 71,462, is confronting the addiction crisis through the innovative Surry Transition Project. In 2021, drug-related offenses accounted for more than 23% of all adult charges in Surry County, and the local detention center processed nearly 3,000 admissions, many involving individuals with untreated substance use disorders. Recognizing the urgent need for a coordinated response, Surry County launched the Surry Transition Project in 2023 with funding through the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Program (COSSUP). This initiative addresses the high rates of substance use and recidivism by providing a seamless continuum of care from detention to community reintegration. The project’s multifaceted approach, encompassing early identification, evidence-based treatment, job readiness, recovery housing, and youth prevention, has successfully reduced strain on the justice system and improved public health outcomes.
Comprehensive, Coordinated Care
At the heart of the Surry Transition Project is a commitment to early identification, clinical assessment, and ongoing support for individuals receiving Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) while in custody. The program ensures continuity of care post-release, facilitating smooth transitions to community-based services and reducing gaps in treatment.
“The Surry Transition Project stands as a model for how bold, innovative action can reduce overdose fatalities, lower recidivism, and secure the health and safety of communities. By focusing on early identification, evidence-based treatment, and seamless transitions from custody to community-based support, the program embodies the comprehensive, coordinated approach required to confront the scourge of illicit drugs and addiction. Surry County is building a safer, healthier future for all its residents through relentless collaboration and a commitment to results.”
—jamie edwards, project director
Accountability and Personal Growth
A defining feature of the project is its mandatory participation contract, which centers on personal accountability and respect. Participants commit to a Detainee Honor Code, emphasizing honesty, confidentiality, commitment to recovery, and mutual respect. Violations result in consequences, reinforcing the program’s core values and preparing individuals for responsible reintegration.
Key Components of the Program
Early Identification and Robust Screening
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individuals screened for substance misuse
The Surry Transition Project is transforming the way early intervention is delivered to individuals entering detention, ensuring that substance use disorders and recidivism risk are addressed through timely, evidence-based screening and assessment. Upon arrival, prospective detainees are quickly referred to STP staff for a thorough, person-centered evaluation using validated tools such as the Addiction Severity Index (ASI) and the Level of Service Inventory (LSI). These assessments, initiated by detention staff, medical personnel, or individuals via a user-friendly tablet system, allow the team to identify underlying needs and risks with precision and care. Of the 25 individuals screened since program launch, twenty-one have been accepted into the treatment process. This swift engagement ensures that intervention begins early, often within days of intake, paving the way for more targeted and effective treatment strategies.
Evidence-Based Treatment and Recovery Support
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individuals accepted into treatment
Current protocols allow for the continuation of MAT for individuals entering custody with an active prescription, and methadone maintenance is provided for pregnant individuals to ensure uninterrupted, safe care. The medical team independently verifies all community-based prescriptions, ensuring continuity of treatment. The program is developing a two-track structure for individuals with high-risk profiles and a track for those with fewer criminogenic indicators to further address the population's needs. This approach allows for individualized care and ensures that all participants receive the support they need, regardless of charge type or custody status.
Continuity of Care and Reentry Support
A core component of the Surry Transition Project is establishing a bridge to community-based care. Upon release from custody, individuals may participate in a MAT bridge program, coordinated through local emergency medical services and the county health department. This program provides at least 14 days of post-release support, allowing individuals time to enroll in a long-term medication treatment plan. Formal procedures for linking participants to this bridge program are in development, with implementation anticipated by July of this year. These efforts are essential to reducing overdose risk and supporting sustained recovery.
Job Readiness and Recovery Housing: Building Stability Through Skill and Support
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individuals participating in job readiness workshops
The Surry Transition Project is taking bold steps to equip individuals in custody with the tools to build productive, healthy lives, starting with workforce readiness and access to stable, recovery-focused housing. These two pillars form the foundation of a broader effort to reduce recidivism, support lasting recovery, and enhance community safety across Surry County.
At the heart of this effort is the Job Readiness Workshop, a hands-on training program that prepares participants for success in today’s competitive workforce. Through this workshop, 40 participants have gained practical skills such as accurately completing job applications, preparing for interviews, identifying in-demand skills, and crafting resumes. Six female participants successfully created resumes during the workshop, underscoring the program’s ability to engage and empower individuals ready to pursue employment.
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individuals attained basic flagger certification while in custody
In addition, the Basic Flagger Training, a North Carolina Department of Transportation-approved certification program, has provided 25 individuals with specialized knowledge in roadway flagging and safety procedures. Participants who complete the training and pass a 20-question assessment receive a state-recognized credential, opening doors to jobs in the construction and infrastructure sectors. Twenty-four individuals have already earned certification, highlighting this program's tangible, real-world impact.
Prevention and Youth Services
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juveniles received servces who were impacted by substance use
Recognizing the importance of preventing substance use before it starts, Surry County is expanding its youth-focused addiction services through Surry Friends of Youth. This program provides support, prevention education, and treatment for juveniles impacted by substance use, with referrals from the school system, local law enforcement, and the Juvenile Justice program. Ten youths have been served, including two receiving prevention-specific services. The program also addresses transportation barriers and is certifying additional staff in evidence-based curricula, further strengthening the service array.
Collaborative Partners
Surry County Office of Substance Abuse Recovery
Surry County Sheriff’s Office
Surry County Detention Center
Surry County Emergency Medical Services
Surry/Stokes Friends of Youth
New Hope New Beginnings Transitional Housing
University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
Looking Forward
Recognizing that job training must be paired with housing stability to support long-term recovery, the Surry Transition Project also partners with a local transitional recovery residence. Beginning in summer 2025, this partnership will offer men leaving detention access to sober housing, case management, peer support, counseling, vocational training, and life skills development. This continuum of care supports successful reentry and fosters accountability, purpose, and independence, key elements of both recovery and public safety.
Project Director
Jamie Edwards, Director
Surry County Office of Substance Abuse Recovery
edwardsj@co.surry.nc.us
336-401-8218
This project was supported by Grant No. 15PBJA23GK02258COAP awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance. The Bureau of Justice Assistance is a component of the Department of Justice's Office of Justice Programs, which also includes the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the National Institute of Justice, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, the Office for Victims of Crime, and the SMART Office. Points of view or opinions in this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.