Learn to Cope saved my life: Taunton Families Affected by Opioids Meet with the Attorney General
Attorney General Maura Healey Visits Learn to Cope in Taunton, Praises Community Support in the Fight Against the Opioid Crisis
TAUNTON, MA — For nearly a decade, Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey has partnered with Learn to Cope, and she credits the organization’s grassroots insights with shaping her office’s strategy to address the opioid crisis.
“We love you guys. You help drive so much of our office,” Healey told members during a visit this week.
On Wednesday, Healey toured River to Recovery in Fall River, stopped at New Bedford Harbor, and concluded her day at Learn to Cope’s Taunton headquarters, reaffirming her office’s commitment to expanding behavioral health and addiction treatment services.
Learn to Cope (LTC): A Lifeline for Families
Learn to Cope (LTC) is a nonprofit support network offering education, resources, and peer-led support groups for families coping with a loved one’s addiction. Funded by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the organization now operates 25 chapters statewide.
During the visit, regional managers, group facilitators, and family members shared personal stories with Healey. Among them was Jim Derek, a longtime LTC member whose family has been affected by opioid use disorder.
“I could not fix him, but I was able to fix myself,” Derek shared. “Learn to Cope saved my life.”
Founded by Joanne Peterson in 2004, LTC’s mission is to help families “keep their heads above water and survive.” Peterson expressed gratitude for the visit, noting how the pandemic’s shift to virtual meetings unexpectedly expanded access.
“It’s been a blessing in disguise,” she said. “More families have been able to join and get the help they need.”
Peterson’s leadership was recently recognized by CNN as part of its Champions for Change series, which highlights individuals who are breaking down barriers and transforming lives.
Local Spotlight: Safe Sober Living in Taunton
If you or someone you love is looking for stable, recovery-focused housing in the Taunton area, consider exploring Zero Tolerance Sober House, a men’s sober living home committed to structure, safety, and community.
At Vanderburgh Sober Living, we help people across New England access quality sober living options managed by passionate and responsible Operators. Our homes are guided by caring House Mentors who foster a positive, substance-free environment.
Our Charter Program empowers independent Operators to launch and manage sober homes in their own communities using our trusted model. If you’ve ever considered opening a recovery residence, we invite you to connect with us and explore this opportunity to serve.
Even if a home in our network isn’t the right fit, our national Sober House Directory helps individuals find quality sober living across the country—complete with photos, maps, and important details to make the right choice easier.