Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) recently launched its new Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAR) Program at its Portage Cragin Counseling Center on Chicago’s Northwest Side, bringing vital support to individuals struggling with opioid use disorder.
The MAR Program uses Suboxone, a safe, FDA approved medication, to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms from opioids, lower overdose risk, and support long-term recovery. Medications for opioid use disorder decrease illicit opioid use, and reduce the risk of fatal overdose by about 50%. With a whole-person approach that focuses on harm reduction and accessible care, MAR is open to adults 18+ with current or recent opioid use, including pregnant women.
Services are available in both English and Spanish. “Our clients have long voiced frustrations about accessing MAR programs,” said Yolanda Nunez, the program’s registered nurse. “Now, LSSI is able to meet that need directly and provide vital treatment and support to the community.”
The new program addresses a pressing need in the communities LSSI serves and reflects its commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care. While therapy and support groups are available and encouraged through LSSI, they are not required for MAR clients—removing barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking help. The MAR Program is part of LSSI’s Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic
(CCBHC) model.
In addition to Nunez, the program is staffed by a dedicated, experienced team that includes a nurse practitioner, certified recovery support specialist, and medical assistant. The program brings together their clinical expertise and lived experience.
“I walk alongside my peers and support them in their recovery needs,” said Latonya Carter, Peer Support Specialist. “We’re all about person-centered care, advocacy, mentoring, self-care, and recovery education. It is a great honor to be a part of the MAR Program where I can utilize my many skills toward the change we want to see in the community.”
For more information on LSSI’s MAR Program, call LSSI Connect at 833.610.5774.
Photo Caption: The Medication-Assisted Recovery Team, from left, Vanessa Jones, Yolanda Nunez, Latonya Carter, and Monica Lopez.
