Who we are
Engaging Prince Edward County is a dedicated community-academic action group committed to addressing the opioid crisis in Prince Edward County through awareness, support, and advocacy. We bring together local leaders, healthcare professionals, first responders, individuals in recovery, and concerned citizens to create meaningful change.
The strategies presented here were developed by diverse community members who are experts in opioid-related issues, either through lived experience or service. County residents, healthcare providers, service providers, and people with substance use disorder and their families, participated in a structured process led by a local community team to evaluate opioid misuse in the county and prioritize strategies to address it.
Our mission is to facilitate action on these and other initiatives that empower individuals, support families, and strengthen our community’s response to substance use disorder. By fostering collaboration and breaking down barriers to recovery, we strive to create a healthier, more resilient Prince Edward County. Together, we believe that we can make a lasting impact in the fight against opioid addiction.
Priority Strategies Identified by Community Residents for Prince Edward County
Community Awareness and Education:
- Raise awareness in the community of the opioid and substance misuse issue.
- Conduct community outreach to those in need of opioid and substance misuse services.
- Conduct community education programs about opioid and substance misuse, treatment, and recovery.
Establish formal and non-formal treatment and recovery services:
- Increase the number of peer recovery specialists working in the clinical, non-profit, and criminal justice systems.
- Establish a local detoxification center that provides timely and accessible services to those in need
Criminal Justice System:
- Establish programs for substance misuse related criminal offenses that rehabilitate, e.g. Recovery Court.
- Establish programs in the jail system for people with substance misuse disorder that prepares them for release.
- Have peer support professionals on call with law enforcement for substance misuse related calls.
- Evaluate current laws related to substance misuse that de-incentivize help seeking behavior.
- Crack down on narcotic distributors in the community and jails.