Better access to detox facilities on the mainland and specially-trained recovery coaches are in the works following a public forum last June.

A large crowd gathered at the Oak Bluffs School Friday that focused on heroin addiction. The organizer was Billy Pfaff, founder of the Facebook group Heroin Is Killing My Town.

Several Islanders credit the medication known by the brand name Suboxone for successful, extended recovery from opiate addiction.

Escalating concern about the heroin epidemic, and how the Island is dealing with support for addicts and their families, was discussed.

With heroin use a rising concern on the Cape and Islands, the Penikese School has announced plans to reopen as a residential treatment center.