Manatee County's OPEP Offers Free Life-Saving Resources Amid Rising Opioid Overdoses
Manatee County's Overdose Prevention & Education Program (OPEP) is providing essential, free resources to combat the escalating opioid crisis in the community. The program offers complimentary Narcan distribution, opioid overdose training, and peer support for individuals in or beginning recovery. These efforts aim to empower residents to take proactive steps in saving lives and supporting recovery.
The urgency of these services is underscored by concerning statistics. Statewide, Florida recorded 7,769 fatal overdoses in 2022, according to the Florida Department of Health's Substance Use Dashboard. Locally, Manatee County has faced its own share of the crisis, with opioid overdose incidents remaining a critical public health challenge. In recent years, the county has seen a surge in overdoses, leading to concerted efforts to address the epidemic.
To further support these initiatives, Manatee County is leveraging settlement funds from national and state prescription opioid litigation. These funds, distributed over the next 18 years, will be allocated to prevention, treatment, and recovery programs. The Board of County Commissioners has designated Drug Free Manatee as the County’s opioid taskforce to guide the effective use of these resources, underscoring the commitment to long-term solutions.
Through OPEP, residents can access free Narcan—a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses—along with comprehensive training and peer support. These tools are vital in equipping the community to respond effectively to overdoses and promote recovery.
Community members are encouraged to utilize these free services to help curb the opioid epidemic in Manatee County. For more information or to access these resources, visit mymanatee.org/opep. Taking advantage of these offerings can be a pivotal step toward saving lives and fostering a healthier community. Together, Manatee County can continue to fight the opioid epidemic and build a future of hope and recovery.