There is a growing body of research that demonstrates the value of EAPs in dealing with alcohol, tobacco, drug use and other problems that effect work performance. However, the benefits of EAPs has been largely available only to those businesses with more that 50 employees. The lack of affordable EAPs for the small business presents a real problem for the fastest growing sector of our economy. Small businesses are less able to deal with the costs associated with loss of productivity, absenteeism and turnover that often result when employees experience problems that affect their performance in the workplace.

BRiDGES is currently working with the business community to assess the specific needs of small businesses in order to develop affordable EAPs that meet those needs. If you are the owner or an employee of a small business and are interested in finding out more about the Employee Assistance Program call the BRiDGES office at (315) 697-3949 or 1-800-834-3947.