Snohomish County Awards 77,800 to 11 Organizations to Combat Opioid Crisis

On April 16, 2024, Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers announced a significant allocation of $77,800 to support 11 community organizations dedicated to recovery services for individuals facing opioid use disorder. This funding is sourced from the One Washington Memorandum of Understanding, which relates to opioid settlements. The initiative is a response to the alarming rise in opioid-related fatalities, with Snohomish County reporting 264 fatal overdoses in 2023 alone. This marks a dramatic increase from previous years, highlighting the urgent need for effective community-based interventions. Organizations such as Advocates Recovery Services will receive funds to train at least 15 residents as Certified Recovery Coaches, equipping them to aid others in their recovery journeys.

Additionally, Take the Next Step will utilize $4,500 to provide mobile outreach services to those who are unhoused and struggling with substance use. Executive Somers emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to address this crisis, stating, “We have the infrastructure and partnerships needed to address substance use disorder. ” The funding not only serves immediate needs but also aims to foster long-term recovery solutions within the community.