Ben McCormick advocates for street outreach to combat Baltimore's opioid crisis

The Baltimore City Council hearing on public health held on July 9, 2025, focused on the ongoing opioid crisis and the need for collaborative efforts among local agencies to address addiction and overdose prevention. Key speakers highlighted the alarming statistics surrounding overdose deaths in Baltimore, which accounted for over 38 percent of Maryland's total despite the city representing only 9 percent of the state's population.

Ben McCormick, executive director of the New Life Recovery Center, emphasized the necessity for outreach programs that take resources directly to the streets rather than waiting for clients to seek help. He called for greater collaboration among agencies to effectively reach the most affected areas of the city, expressing hope for a unified approach to combat the crisis.

Candy Kerr from the Baltimore Harm Reduction Coalition echoed these sentiments, recalling the legacy of William Miller, a prominent advocate for harm reduction who had pushed for overdose prevention centers in the city. Kerr stressed the importance of meeting individuals where they are in their recovery journey and highlighted the ongoing need for overdose prevention strategies.

The discussions underscored the critical nature of addressing public health issues in Baltimore, particularly in light of the upcoming legislative reelection year, which may hinder progress. Council members were urged to prioritize public health initiatives and work collaboratively to mitigate the impact of the opioid epidemic in the community. The meeting concluded with a call for continued advocacy and action to support those struggling with addiction and to prevent further loss of life.