Fulton Co. programs receive funds from nearly half a million dollar settlement to fight opioid crisis
Fulton County allocates over $644,000 from opioid settlement funds to five local programs focused on treatment and recovery.Summary
Fulton County is distributing $644,000 in funds, part of Georgia’s share of a national settlement with pharmaceutical companies, to combat the opioid crisis. The funds will be allocated to five organizations: Atlanta Harm Reduction Coalition, Inc., Aniz, Inc., Ascensa Health, Inc., Empowerment Resource Center, and Mary Hall Freedom Village, Inc. These programs will expand services like medication-assisted treatment, peer counseling, outpatient detox, and workforce training. Lynnette Allen, Fulton County’s opioid coordinator, emphasized the importance of diverse treatment options and resources, particularly with the ongoing risk of fentanyl-laced drugs. Tracey George of Ascensa Health highlighted the widespread impact of opioid addiction, affecting individuals across all socioeconomic backgrounds and age groups. The county also offers resources like a 24/7 Text4Help line and drug disposal options, recognizing that recovery often requires multiple attempts. The funding prioritizes treatment and recovery, aligning with the state’s five priority areas for addressing the opioid epidemic.
(Source：Alive)