FreshStart explores overdose prevention center partnership with HEAL and Wabanaki

The City Council of Bangor, Maine, is taking significant steps toward addressing the opioid crisis through the establishment of a self-sustaining overdose prevention center. During a recent meeting of the Opioid Settlement Funds Advisory Committee, members emphasized the importance of creating solutions that do not rely on taxpayer funding and can endure over time.

Chief Hussainian highlighted the need for sustainability in any initiatives developed, stressing that projects should not be designed to fail within a few years. The committee discussed the potential for collaboration with existing organizations, such as FreshStart and HEAL, to create a comprehensive approach to overdose prevention. One proposal includes utilizing a location near Wabanaki for the new center, which would serve as a hub for combined efforts in tackling the opioid epidemic.

The discussions underscored a commitment to finding practical, community-driven solutions that can effectively address the ongoing challenges posed by opioid misuse. By focusing on self-sustainability and collaboration, the council aims to implement strategies that will have a lasting impact on public health and safety in Bangor. As plans develop, the community can look forward to a more integrated approach to combating the opioid crisis.