Spokane County invests nearly 1 million in regional addiction treatment services

Spokane County is making a significant investment of nearly $1 million to enhance addiction treatment services through Spokane Treatment and Recovery Services (STARS). The Board of County Commissioners has unanimously approved a $775,000 grant, which will be used to expand both the facility and the range of services offered at STARS. This funding is part of a larger $1. 2 million allocation resulting from settlements from lawsuits against opioid manufacturers and distributors. Commission Chair Mary Kuney noted that the county is focused on addressing critical gaps in regional treatment and support services.

The collaboration aims to provide immediate solutions while also supporting the expansion of the Spokane Regional Stabilization Center, which received $5. 2 million in settlement funds last year. Justin Johnson, Spokane County's director of community services, expressed optimism about the long-term stability and viability of these services through this partnership. STARS Executive Director Ryan Kent highlighted the potential to quadruple the number of clients served over the next ten years. This initiative represents a unified approach to tackling the pressing issue of addiction and improving community health outcomes.