To Help Address Drug Crisis, Snohomish County Awards Funding to 11 Community Organizations Providing Recovery Services

Snohomish, WALocal News

Snohomish County is taking decisive action against the opioid crisis by awarding $7,500 to Advocates Recovery Services and $4,500 to Take the Next Step, among other organizations, to expand recovery services. With a staggering rise in fatal overdoses, particularly linked to fentanyl, the county's efforts are more urgent than ever. Executive Somers highlighted the importance of leveraging local partnerships and infrastructure to address substance use disorder effectively. Advocates Recovery Services will utilize the funding to support at least 15 residents in becoming Certified Recovery Coaches, a program designed to enhance community competency in recovery solutions. Meanwhile, Take the Next Step will engage in mobile outreach to connect unhoused individuals with vital resources and information about recovery options.

These initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to mitigating the impacts of substance abuse in Snohomish County. The county is committed to ongoing education and overdose prevention, with plans for a second funding round later this summer. Interested individuals can access treatment resources and naloxone training through the county's website.

Related Articles

Appeals court upholds decision against SRFR Firefighter 8

The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court's decision against Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue, siding with the agency in a religious discrimination case involving eight firefighters who refused the COVID-19 vaccine. The firefighters, who sought back pay after being placed on unpaid leave, argued that the agency failed to provide reasonable accommodations for their religious beliefs. Attorneys representing the firefighters criticized the ruling, stating it jeopardizes religious freedom protections.

Fortney family revives teen leader program

Adam and Jill Fortney launched the Lead The Way Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at helping teens become positive community members. The foundation offers a free eight-week program for youth aged 13-17, focusing on leadership skills and personal development, starting on October 8 at Sno-Isle Tech Skills Center in Everett.

Sultan middle school student seeks national championship title in taekwondo

Fourteen-year-old Zayden Zimmerman, a mixed martial arts enthusiast, will compete as the No. 1 seed in the Moo Do taekwondo national championships on October 16 in Sacramento. After earning her first-degree black belt and winning 35 first-place medals, she aims to qualify for the 2026 AAU Junior Olympics in Des Moines. Zayden also excels in jiu-jitsu, having won all four of her competitions since starting the sport last year.