Mayor Brown Proposes Boost to Opioid Treatment, Navigation Services

Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown announced a proposal to invest $730,000 in opioid settlement funds during a recent community meeting. The funding would be directed towards Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome treatment at Maddie’s Place, mobile treatment outreach, and an outdoor navigation program for those facing homelessness and opioid use disorder. Mayor Brown emphasized the importance of supporting community organizations on the front lines of the crisis. Shaun Cross, CEO of Maddie’s Place, highlighted the urgent need for specialized care for infants affected by opioid exposure. To date, the city has allocated $2,480,350 to various services aimed at mitigating the opioid crisis, including enhancing clinical capacity within the Spokane Fire Department and expanding access to treatment through the Spokane Regional Health District.

These efforts reflect a growing recognition of the challenges posed by opioid use and the need for comprehensive support services. The proposed funding aims to fill critical gaps in care and improve outcomes for vulnerable populations. Addressing these issues is vital for the health and safety of the Spokane community.