Rural North Carolina tackles substance abuse crisis head-on

During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on efforts to combat substance abuse in Harnett County, North Carolina, as part of the \"Reaching Rural\" initiative. This program aims to reduce substance abuse rates and, consequently, the jail population over time. The county, with a population of approximately 100,000, is currently implementing various strategies to address these issues.

Key components of the initiative include programs within the jail designed to assist inmates in overcoming addiction before their release. The meeting highlighted the importance of gradual progress, with officials emphasizing the need to take measured steps rather than rushing the implementation of solutions.

Among the strategies discussed was the potential use of Narcan, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, as well as broader support systems for individuals struggling with substance abuse. The county is also focusing on reentry programs, such as \"Brothers and Sisters Behind Bars,\" which aim to provide peer support for those transitioning back into society.

The county's approach involves setting clear priorities and developing a strategic plan to tackle substance abuse comprehensively. Officials noted that while progress has been made over the past year, there remains a significant amount of work to be done. The transparency of the county's planning process was praised, as they continue to check off milestones on their action list.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by rural communities in addressing substance abuse and the importance of sustained efforts and community involvement in creating effective solutions.