Face It Together Bemidji promotes harm reduction strategies and naloxone access

The Beltrami County Work Session held on July 15, 2025, focused on the critical issue of addiction and harm reduction strategies in the community. Chris, a representative from Face It Together, presented the organization's mission and efforts to combat substance abuse in the area.

During the meeting, Chris emphasized the importance of harm reduction, likening it to wearing a seatbelt in a car to prevent injury. He explained that their approach aims to reduce overdose deaths and disease spread, highlighting a recent decline in overdose rates in Beltrami County as a positive outcome of their initiatives. Chris defended the use of naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid overdoses, stating that it enables individuals to survive and seek recovery rather than enabling drug use.

Commissioner Wenger inquired about the distinction between naloxone and other treatments like Suboxone and methadone. Chris clarified that naloxone is used in emergencies to reverse overdoses, while Suboxone and methadone are treatments for individuals recovering from addiction.

The discussion also touched on the establishment of a drop-in center for harm reduction services, which aims to provide a safe space for individuals seeking help without triggering negative experiences. Chris mentioned the placement of red boxes in high-need areas for safe disposal of used syringes, demonstrating their commitment to community safety.

While Chris acknowledged the lack of specific statistics on the effectiveness of naloxone in prompting individuals to seek treatment, he shared anecdotal evidence of individuals who, after experiencing an overdose, were motivated to pursue recovery.

The meeting concluded with appreciation for the work being done by Face It Together, with an invitation for county officials to visit the facility and learn more about their programs. The ongoing efforts to address addiction and promote harm reduction in Beltrami County reflect a proactive approach to a pressing public health issue.