ENCINITAS
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OFFICE OF THE MAYOR of The CITY OF ENCINITAS
National Recovery Month
WHEREAS, National Recovery Month is observed each September to celebrate the millions of people living in recovery from substance use and mental health challenges, recognize the families and communities who support them, and promote the message that recovery is real; and
WHEREAS, behavioral health is an essential part of overall health and well-being, and substance use disorders are treatable health conditions from which people can and do recover; and
WHEREAS, addiction and mental health challenges affect individuals, families, workplaces, schools and communities across every region, background, and political affiliation; and
WHEREAS, recovery is strengthened by access to evidence-based treatment, peer support, harm reduction, stable housing, employment opportunities, family and community connection, and public policies that reduce barriers to care; and WHEREAS, stigma remains one of the greatest barriers preventing people from seeking help, accessing treatment, and sustaining recovery; and
WHEREAS, the San Diego Rescue Mission demonstrates a treatment first approach to addressing homelessness and addiction, recognizing that lasting recovery begins by addressing the underlying causes of substance use and providing individuals with the treatment, support, stability, and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives; and WHEREAS, National Recovery Month provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate this treatment first approach and to affirm that people struggling with addiction deserve compassionate, evidence-based care and a genuine opportunity for recovery; and WHEREAS, stigma remains one of the greatest barriers preventing people from seeking help, accessing treatment, and sustaining recovery; and
WHEREAS, public leaders, healthcare providers, recovery community organizations, employers, schools, faith communities and residents all have a role to play in building communities where people can ask for help without shame; and WHEREAS, National Recovery Month also provides an opportunity to honor those we have lost to addiction and alcoholism, to recognize the grief carried by their families and loved ones, and to remember that behind every statistic is a person whose life touches the lives of others; and
WHEREAS, we honor the memory of Jeff Odell, who passed as a result of alcohol use disorder, and recognize his family's designation of September 22, 2026, as a day of solidarity and remembrance for loved ones lost to alcoholism, bringing families and communities together to remember to support one another and reaffirm the importance of treatment and recovery.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Bruce Ehlers, Mayor of the City of Encinitas, along with all the City Council Members do hereby proclaim September 2026 as National Recovery Month in the City of Encinitas to celebrate recovery, honor those lost to addiction and alcoholism, support individuals and families, reduce stigma and work together to ensure that recovery is accessible, understood and supported for all.
Dated this 23° day of September 2026
Bru. Shu
Bruce Ehlers
Mayor
Jim O'Hara by Lyndes
Deputy Mayor
Tall
Marco San Antonio Luke Shaffer
Council Member Council Member