by Mark Slavit
COLUMBIA, MO. — People being treated for alcohol and drug abuse have a new place to find help.

Columbia Mayor Bob McDavid led a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the grand opening of Phoenix Programs’ new facility.

Federal grants and donations helped pay for the $4.7 million building that actually opened last year.

The facility sits near the corner of Providence Road and Vandiver Drive across the street from Wilson’s Total Fitness.

About 40 Phoenix Programs counselors provide services to about 2,000 people with addictions to drugs and alcohol.

The 28,000-square-foot facility replaces three smaller Phoenix Programs Inc. locations scattered throughout Columbia.

“We’ve actually doubled our space,” Executive Director Deborah Beste said. “We’re much more efficient with our service delivery. I think that’s what the community expects. We are delivering a professional and yet very efficient service.”

Phoenix Programs administrators will be hosting awareness events throughout the Columbia community this month.