River Edge Behavioral Health expands into six Middle Georgia counties

MACON, Ga. (WPGA) - River Edge Behavioral Health is expanding its reach across Middle Georgia to ensure rural communities have access to behavioral care.

Baldwin, Hancock, Jasper, Putnam, Washington and Wilkinson counties will now receive services from River Edge Behavioral Health.

River Edge had already been doing some work in these areas, including in some school systems. The formal expansion establishes the organization as the primary source for behavioral care in the counties.

“Once we get into there and start digging our heels in will see what else is needed in these counties,” said Cass Hatcher, executive director of River Edge Behavioral Health.

River Edge provides help for people with mental health, substance use and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Services include crisis intervention, supported employment and housing opportunities.

Hatcher said substance abuse is one of the primary concerns the organization addresses in rural areas.

“Sometimes, substance abuse can be a problem, whether it’s alcoholism or whether it’s meth you can name the drug of your choice. There is a small percentage of need to do IDD community in terms of people with intellectual disabilities,” Hatcher said.

The expansion follows River Edge’s merger with the Oconee Center Community Service Board. The goal is to make sure there is no gap in services.

“Its all about access how can we make access available to the county. Instead of coming to Macon maybe they just come to Baldwin County because Baldwin County is central to the other five counties that we’ll be serving,” Hatcher said.