The Divided Sky Foundation, founded last year by Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio, has announced the purchase of a facility in Ludlow, Vt. which will be developed into a non-profit substance use disorder treatment center.

The Foundation reports that “the as-yet unnamed center will be managed by Ascension Recovery Services, which has created successful, inclusive treatment programs in 23 states. Acquiring the facility site is the first step in a plan that also includes building renovations and program development. The center is tentatively slated to open by the end of 2021.”

The purchase of the facility was aided by the money raised during Anastasio’s The Beacon Jams livestream run at the Beacon Theatre, which totaled over $1.2 million.

Anastasio reflects, “Substance use disorders affect people from all walks of life, and the problem is intimately linked with isolation – whether that’s isolation due to the pandemic or for any other reason. The Beacon Jams helped us find a way to connect people and get this project off the ground. To be able to do that together during this difficult year touches my heart.”

Vermont ranks 11th in the nation for overdose rates, but has just four state-certified residential treatment facilities for substance use disorder. The Foundation notes that “The proposed Ludlow center would help bridge the gap between need and existing services.”

The non-profit center is committed to assisting people of all income levels. The Foundation explains, that “Care services being planned include multiple pathways to entering and maintaining recovery, with plans and programs tailored to individual guests’ needs. In addition, the center plans to offer job training and workforce reintegration. Education opportunities are planned to prepare guests who need them with certification in skills and trades.”

“Like so many people in America and so many in Vermont, I became addicted to opiates,” Anastasio, who is 14 years sober, adds. “I was extremely lucky to have access to care, and I know how important it is to be part of a recovery community. I’m grateful that we can help provide that opportunity for others.” 

If you or someone you know needs help with a substance use disorder, contact SAMHSA.gov or call 800-662-HELP (4357) to find a treatment center near you.

For more information and to donate to the Divided Sky Foundation, head to Trey.com/donate.

Anastasio was on the cover of the Oct./Nov. edition of Relix Magazine, in which he discussed The Divided Sky Foundation, The Beacon Jams and much more. Read it in full here: Trey Anastasio: Homing Beacon.