The impact of opioid epidemic can be felt in communities both large and small throughout the United States. In 2021, a national settlement spanning over 18 years was reached between various pharmaceutical companies and the United States government in order to attempt to reduce damage done and prevent further harm from opioid use/misuse. These funds, paired with national efforts to reform pharmaceutical regulations, work to mitigate harm done to our communities and to improve the lives of all Americans.
In Southwest Minnesota, early use of these funds has been used to initiate several significant programs; launching medication assisted treatment and case management for pregnant and postpartum people, creating licensed alcohol and drug counselor academic programs, funding K-9 detection dogs for law enforcement, expanding detox facilities, and improving community awareness surrounding substance misuse. These initiatives, among others, are actively addressing the effects of addiction within our communities.
“With the funds provided from the Opioid Settlement, the Buffalo Ridge Drug & Violent Crime Task Force was able to purchase a trace narcotics detection system. With the use of this system, agents have been able to successfully identify, detect, and confirm the presence of narcotics including but not limited to opioids found in different narcotics safely,” stated the Commander of the Buffalo Ridge Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.
A fourth round of funding will become available from March 1 through April 10 for organizations to apply for these settlement funds in Lyon, Pipestone, Redwood, and Rock counties. Priority will be given to applicants that emphasize prevention and raise community awareness regarding substance misuse (other categories include harm reduction, treatment/recovery, and criminal justice). Organizations with innovative and solutionbased proposals are encouraged to apply.
Any questions about the applications process or funds available can be directed to Kristin Deacon or Jenna Stephenson at [email protected]. The application documents can be found on the Southwest Health and Human Services’ website: www.swmhhs.com.
