The Town of Franklin is partnering with Art Pharmacy, a nationally recognized program that harnesses the power of arts and cultural engagement to promote healing, social connection, and overall well-being. 

“Franklin is proud to be the first municipality in the United States to implement Arts & Cultural Prescriptions through the use of Town opioid settlement funds.” stated Franklin Deputy Town Administer, Amy Frigulietti. “This pioneering program demonstrates the Town’s commitment to fostering resilience and healing for individuals with substance use disorder through the transformative power of the arts.” 

Art Pharmacy connects individuals to creative experiences—such as music, visual arts, dance, and theater—as a tool for improving mental health and fostering resilience. By integrating the arts into wellness strategies, Franklin aims to support substance use prevention and recovery efforts within the community. 

“We are thrilled to work with the Town of Franklin and support its residents with prevention and recovery supports for Substance Use Disorder,” says Chris Appleton, Art Pharmacy CEO. “Cross-sector partnerships that leverage existing community resources with innovative care models is necessary to help individuals at the various stages they need support.” 

On March 5, 2025 the Town, along with Art Pharmacy and the Massachusetts Cultural Council, introduced this program to the community. Since then, the Town has been working with Art Pharmacy to build out a network of providers and prescribers in order to launch the program to participants on May 1, 2025. This initiative was featured as part of an MMA 

webinar on May 12th, discussing how to leverage arts & culture for substance use prevention and recovery utilizing opioid settlement funds. 

Art Pharmacy trains individuals and organizations across the community who serve individuals in need of support, including hospitals, health clinics, mental health clinics, senior centers, school professionals, community organizations, and more. Interested organizations can contact Art Pharmacy using this interest form, and Art Pharmacy will reach out directly with information on getting started. 

Art Pharmacy is looking for creative and cultural programs that are open to members of the public who want to join the network. Organizations can be traditional and non-traditional arts & culture institutions, and any size. Complete this enrollment form to start the process of becoming an arts and culture partner. Art Pharmacy will reach out with next steps to join the network. 

To learn about the Town of Franklin’s partnership with Art Pharmacy, please visit the Town webpage. For questions about the Art Pharmacy program or how to get involved, please email [email protected].