One item on the agenda was the proposal from Community Health Northwest Florida, which aims to expand its core program in partnership with Escambia EMS. This initiative seeks to enhance medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder by hiring a supervising medical doctor, improving provider training, and bolstering mobile medical unit services. The board discussed the sustainability of this program, emphasizing the importance of securing long-term funding sources. A representative from Community Health clarified that their request was for program expansion rather than subsidizing current operations.

Another discussion revolved around the Ministry Village at Olive’s proposal to construct a new facility for its women’s addiction recovery program. Currently housing 20 women in aging buildings, this expansion would allow for 30 residents and include transitional housing post-recovery. The board heard about the program’s success, with an 86% sobriety rate and a 100% family reunification rate. The representative noted a dramatic increase in demand, with 300 applicants this year compared to 50 over the past five years. Funding would support building construction and operational costs, addressing the need for improved facilities.

The Reentry Alliance Pensacola (REAP) also presented its expansion plans for supporting ex-offenders dealing with addiction. The organization currently manages 22 houses and provides structured support and counseling for over 2,500 individuals. The proposal includes hiring certified addiction specialists and expanding housing dedicated to individuals with opioid-related challenges. The board considered the importance of wraparound services and long-term recovery solutions for this population, underlining the need to integrate addiction treatment within broader reentry and homeless support programs.

Additionally, the board discussed the implementation of a prevention program targeting opioid-related issues in schools. This program involves training regional officers and Guardians to deliver educational content, focusing on resilience against peer pressure and recognizing problematic behaviors. The initiative is operational in some private schools and has received approval from the Escambia County School Board for public schools. The board members explored the program’s alignment with opioid abatement objectives and its potential to instill preventative measures in students.

The meeting also addressed the Community Action Team’s (CAT) application for additional personnel specializing in substance abuse to support families and children aged five to eighteen. The team operates community-based services, conducting home visits and receiving referrals from schools and child welfare agencies. Board members stressed the need for local facilities catering to youth needing substance abuse treatment, emphasizing the importance of creating specialized teams to address these gaps effectively.