Polk County launches housing assistance and overdose response initiatives

Polk County is taking significant steps to address the pressing issue of housing and substance use recovery in the community. During a recent meeting of the Polk County Board of Supervisors, officials proposed a temporary housing assistance program aimed at supporting individuals undergoing substance use disorder treatment. This initiative, funded by settlement dollars, is designed to provide financial assistance for rent, effectively removing barriers to care and encouraging individuals to seek treatment.

The proposed program is expected to allocate approximately $1 million, which could help around 200 individuals by covering two months of rent. This strategic investment aims to maintain housing stability for those entering treatment, thereby preventing further strain on an already overloaded housing system.

In addition to housing support, the Board discussed the establishment of an Overdose Response Team in collaboration with the Des Moines Fire Department and Full Circle Recovery Community Center. This team will provide immediate post-overdose care, connecting individuals to treatment and recovery services right at their homes. This model, which has seen success in other cities, aims to serve the entire Polk County area, ensuring that all residents have access to critical support.

The meeting also highlighted the continuation of a successful grant program for organizations supporting individuals with lived experience of substance use disorders. This two-year grant, totaling $200,000, will allow community organizations to plan and implement sustainable programs that engage individuals in treatment and reduce substance use harm.

Furthermore, the Board is looking to expand youth prevention efforts by offering grants to organizations targeting fourth to eighth graders. This initiative aims to prevent substance use at an early age and will include technical assistance to strengthen local programs.

Lastly, the meeting addressed overdose prevention efforts, with a focus on extending support to Steps of Hope Iowa, an organization that has successfully distributed naloxone and placed overdose prevention boxes throughout the county.

These initiatives reflect Polk County's commitment to tackling housing instability and substance use challenges, with a clear focus on creating sustainable solutions that benefit the entire community. As these programs move forward, they promise to enhance access to essential services and foster a healthier environment for all residents.