Youngstown, OH – Meridian HealthCare unveiled the Judge Joseph Donofrio Center on November 11, 2024. The center is the official new name of their Chalmers Avenue facility, which provides critical addiction recovery services, including withdrawal management (detox), inpatient residential treatment, alcohol addiction treatment, and intensive outpatient treatment. It also offers support services like primary healthcare, acupuncture, chiropractic care, and family education.

Meridian HealthCare renamed this facility to honor Judge Joseph Donofrio’s profound legacy in advancing addiction treatment within our community. Judge Gene Donofrio spoke at the event about what this dedication would mean to his father, who passed in 2020.

“My father never sought the spotlight, but I’m certain he is smiling down on us now,” said Judge Gene Donofrio. “He would be deeply moved by this tribute. Naming this facility in his honor will keep his legacy alive for many years to come. To Larry and Meridian HealthCare, thank you for this privilege and for honoring the pioneers in this field. And thank you for everything you do to make our community a better place to live.”

In 1966, Judge Joseph Donofrio introduced a groundbreaking alternative for individuals facing legal issues due to recurring alcohol-related offenses. Instead of jail time, his program directed them to Alcoholics Anonymous, offering them recovery rather than punishment. This visionary and compassionate approach ultimately inspired the creation of the Donofrio Halfway House, which became part of Meridian HealthCare in 2005.

“We are proud to carry on Judge Donofrio’s legacy by naming our inpatient detox facility after him,” said Larry Moliterno, president and CEO of Meridian HealthCare. “At that time, no one else viewed addiction the way he did, understanding that simply putting people in jail was not the answer. He saw individuals struggling and knew they didn’t just need help, they needed hope.”

For more information about the services offered at Meridian HealthCare’s Judge Joseph Donofrio Center, visit their website at meridianhealthcare.net/the-donofrio-center.

About Meridian HealthCare: Since 1974, Meridian HealthCare has delivered a person-centered approach to care and treatment, understanding the importance of prevention, early intervention, care, and support. Finding what works best for everyone is the key to optimal health, and the continuum of care philosophy aligns perfectly with our mission. In addition to offering a comprehensive approach to addiction (that includes prevention, treatment, recovery support, housing, primary care, mental health criminal justice services, and much more), we are also a trusted source for primary care, mental health services, chiropractic care, and acupuncture.