'Not My Child' screening to spark discussion on addiction

This June 17, 2019, file photo shows 5-mg pills of Oxycodone. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic, File)
This June 17, 2019, file photo shows 5-mg pills of Oxycodone. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic, File)

The Anne Marie Project and the Missouri Mental Health Foundation will host a screening of "Not My Child" on Thursday evening at Calvary Lutheran High School.

The documentary is part of a movement intended to educate communities and families about the challenges of dealing with loved ones' addictions. David Stoecker, who made the film, and Jim Marshall, of Cody's Gift, will speak following the screening.

Marshall is a Mid-Missouri educator who speaks to communities about his son, Cody, who died of an overdose in 2011.

Within the film, families explain signs of substance abuse from their own experiences. It looks at the disease of addiction and explores a variety of paths to recovery, according to its website.

"Not My Child" is intended to equip families with the tools they need to address substance abuse and foster conversations surrounding substance use.

The Anne Marie Project is a coalition that provides resources to help young people find information and guidance on challenges they face. The project received a community support grant of $16,610 from the United Way of Central Missouri late this spring to educate in areas of underage drinking, illegal drugs, mental health and faith to youth.

The screening begins at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Calvary Lutheran High School, 2525 Route B in Jefferson City. It is open to the public. Admission is free.