Rockland County Residents Pushing for Increased Funding to Combat Opioid Epidemic

The opioid epidemic has ravaged Rockland County and the nation, claiming countless lives and devastating families. Despite the efforts of law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community organizations, the battle against addiction remains ongoing. In an effort to address the crisis, residents and local officials are pushing for increased funding to support prevention, treatment, and recovery programs.

Understanding the Opioid Epidemic

The opioid epidemic is a complex issue that has been plaguing Rockland County for decades. According to the Rockland County Department of Health, the number of opioid-related overdose deaths in the county increased by 40% between 2015 and 2017. The rise of heroin and fentanyl has only exacerbated the problem, with these substances being responsible for the majority of overdose deaths in the county.

"The opioid epidemic is a public health crisis that affects every aspect of our community," said Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert, Commissioner of the Rockland County Department of Health. "We need to take a comprehensive approach to addressing this issue, including increased funding for prevention, treatment, and recovery programs."

Prevention is key to addressing the opioid epidemic. This includes reducing the availability of prescription opioids, increasing education and awareness about the risks of opioids, and providing support for individuals struggling with addiction.

"We need to start talking about this at a younger age," said Angela Troisi, a local mother who lost her son to a heroin overdose. "We need to educate kids about the dangers of opioids and provide them with resources and support to stay healthy."

However, prevention is only half the battle. Treatment and recovery programs are also critical to addressing the opioid epidemic.

"We need to provide individuals struggling with addiction with access to evidence-based treatment, including medication-assisted treatment and counseling," said Dr. Ruppert. "We also need to support recovery programs that provide individuals with the tools and resources they need to maintain long-term sobriety."

Funding the Fight Against Addiction

Increasing funding for prevention, treatment, and recovery programs is crucial to combating the opioid epidemic. While Rockland County officials have allocated funds to address the crisis, more is needed.

"We're doing what we can with the resources we have, but it's not enough," said County Executive Ed Day. "We need to secure more funding to support our efforts to prevent addiction, treat those struggling with addiction, and support recovery programs."

Residents and local officials are advocating for increased funding from state and federal governments, as well as philanthropic organizations. This includes:

• Increased funding for prevention programs, including education and awareness initiatives and interventions in community-based settings
• Expanded access to medication-assisted treatment and counseling services, including medication-assisted treatment for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder
• Support for recovery programs, including support groups and peer mentoring
• Increased funding for naloxone distribution and training programs, which provide individuals with the tools and resources they need to save lives and prevent overdose deaths

Naloxone Saves Lives

Naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdose, has been shown to save lives in communities across the country. In Rockland County, naloxone distribution and training programs have been implemented to increase access to this lifesaving medication.

"I was trying to get home from work one evening when I saw someone in distress in the parking lot," said Emily Noonan, a local resident who witnessed an overdose and administered naloxone using a take-home kit provided by the county. "I acted quickly, and it's thanks to the county's naloxone program and the education and training I received that my friend is alive today."

**Naloxone Saves Lives Fact Sheet**

* In 2018, Rockland County distributed over 1,000 naloxone take-home kits to individuals living with opioid use disorder and their loved ones

* Since the implementation of the naloxone program in 2014, the number of overdose deaths in the county has decreased by 20%

Community-Led Solutions

While funding is critical to addressing the opioid epidemic, community-led solutions are also essential. In Rockland County, residents have come together to support those struggling with addiction and to provide resources and support to families affected by the crisis.

"We're not just victims, we're also survivors," said Diana McLoughlin, a member of a local support group. "As survivors, we want to help others and provide them with the tools and resources they need to stay healthy and maintain long-term sobriety."

Community-led solutions include:

• Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous and Al-Anon, which provide individuals and families with resources and support
• Peer mentoring programs, which pair individuals in recovery with those still struggling with addiction
• Community events, such as town halls and rallies, which raise awareness about the opioid epidemic and mobilize support for prevention, treatment, and recovery programs

Education and Awareness

Education and awareness are critical components of addressing the opioid epidemic. In Rockland County, residents and local officials have come together to educate the public about the risks of opioids and to increase access to resources and support.

"We need to start talking about this at a younger age and use language that's accessible to everyone," said Angela Troisi. "We need to educate kids about the dangers of opioids and provide them with resources and support to stay healthy."

**Opioid Awareness Fact Sheet**

* According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prescription opioids account for the majority of opioid overdose deaths in the United States

* In Rockland County, 80% of overdose deaths involve the use of prescription opioids or heroin

Conclusion

The opioid epidemic is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. In Rockland County, residents and local officials are pushing for increased funding to support prevention, treatment, and recovery programs. While community-led solutions, education, and awareness are also essential, increased funding is necessary to address the root causes of addiction and support those struggling with opioid use disorder.

By working together, we can combat the opioid epidemic and provide individuals and families with the resources and support they need to maintain long-term sobriety and regain their lives.