Substance use disorder intervention took center stage at the Lexington Social Services and Public Safety Committee meeting on June 3, 2025, with Carmen Combs Marks, the coordinator for the city's intervention program, delivering a comprehensive update on ongoing efforts and successes in combating addiction.

Marks highlighted the program's critical role as a resource for individuals seeking information and support for substance use and addiction treatment. Funded primarily by a $499,997 grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the program focuses on distributing Narcan, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses, and providing education on its use.

A significant achievement shared by Marks was a 32% decrease in overdose deaths since 2023, a promising trend attributed to the collaborative efforts of various community partners, including hospitals and recovery organizations. "We want to put naloxone in the hands of the people that will be able to help to save a life," Marks stated, emphasizing the importance of outreach in non-traditional settings like barbershops and community festivals.

The meeting also addressed the Recovery Supported Living Assistance (RSLA) program, which provides one-time financial assistance to individuals in sober living homes. Marks noted the program's funding challenges and the need for continued exploration of financial resources to sustain and potentially expand its reach.

Council members raised concerns about ensuring equitable access to Narcan, particularly in communities with higher rates of opioid overdoses among African American males. Marks acknowledged the stigma surrounding substance use and the importance of building relationships within these communities to enhance outreach efforts.

As the meeting concluded, Marks encouraged council members to remain engaged and supportive of the program's initiatives, reinforcing the need for a united front in addressing the ongoing opioid crisis. The next steps include submitting final recommendations for the allocation of opioid litigation funds, which total over $7 million, to further bolster community resources and support for those affected by substance use disorders.