Avery County Government recently hosted two public input sessions on February 27, 2025, at the Avery County Community Center to discuss the allocation of more than $3.2 million in opioid settlement funds. The sessions provided an opportunity for residents and stakeholders to engage in discussions about community needs, ongoing projects, and future initiatives to address substance use disorder in Avery County. A total of 25 individuals attended the morning session, while 13 participated in the evening session.

The sessions began with introductions from Avery County Commissioner Dennis Aldridge, followed by an update from Sarah Price, Resiliency Planner at High Country Council of Governments. Price provided an overview of the upcoming Avery County Opioid Settlement Fund Grant process for FY 2025-2026 and encouraged organizations interested in applying for funding to reach out for more information or to be added to the contact list for the Request for Proposals.

Several nonprofit organizations that received opioid settlement grants in the last fiscal year provided updates on their initiatives. Danny Hampton, Executive Director of Freedom Life Avery, and Re-Entry Coordinator, Milana Ward, NCCPSS shared progress on the development of transitional housing for men and women on 13 acres near Three Mile Highway. Freedom Life Avery is partnering with other organizations and securing grants to make this project a reality. Jonathan Sheppard, Avery Youth Prevention Specialist at Western Youth Network, shared updates on the ongoing collaboration between Freedom Life Avery and Western Youth Network to develop a Reentry Council Initiative. The initiative is currently centered on outreach, volunteer engagement, and expanding available resources. As part of this effort, they have formed an “Advocacy and Awareness Team” consisting of 12-15 volunteers dedicated to enhancing communication and facilitating the implementation of the program in the coming months.

Sara Clark, LCSW, LCAS, MOUD Program Coordinator at High Country Community Health, presented data on the organization’s treatment programs for opioid use disorder. Since July 2024, High Country Community Health has provided medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) to 146 unique patients. In addition, behavioral health specialist Liz Hemby, LCSW-A, LCAS-A, has completed 253 patient appointments at the Avery office since July 2024. Clark emphasized that while over 6.1 million people suffer from opioid use disorder nationwide, only 18% receive FDA-approved treatment. She underscored the need for expanding access to evidence-based care in Avery County.

Dr. Cyndi Austin, Principal of Marjorie Williams Academy, highlighted the school’s work with K-8 students from families affected by opioid use. The program focuses on student attendance, academic success in reading comprehension, and continued use of trauma-informed training. Currently, nine students from Avery County participate in the program, which could serve as a model for other schools in the region.

Another key discussion point was the upcoming Avery Mobile Recovery Outreach Project, a collaboration between the Mediation and Restorative Justice Center, Toe River Health Department, and Avery Community Paramedic Program. Dr. Marisa Cornell, Executive Director of the Mediation and Restorative Justice Center, announced that the mobile outreach vehicle is expected to launch this spring. This initiative will provide peer support services and harm reduction resources throughout Avery County, ensuring that critical services reach residents in need.

The final portion of the sessions allowed participants to break into small discussion groups focused on four key areas: prevention and education, treatment and recovery, harm reduction strategies, and community support opportunities. These discussions helped identify community priorities and strategies for using opioid settlement funds to create long-term solutions for those affected by substance use disorder.

Avery County Government remains committed to using opioid settlement funds transparently and effectively to address the ongoing substance use crisis. Future public meetings will continue to engage residents and stakeholders in shaping these efforts. Registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations interested in applying for funding through the Avery County Opioid Settlement Fund Grant or being added to the Request for Proposals contact list can reach out to Sarah Price at (828) 265-5434 ext. 141 or sprice@hccog.org.

About LiveWell Avery:

LiveWell Avery is a community-driven initiative launched by Avery County Government to connect residents with essential health and wellness resources. The program fosters collaboration among local organizations, empowering individuals with the knowledge and support needed to lead healthier lives. Through education, outreach, and partnerships, LiveWell Avery promotes accessibility to programs that enhance physical, mental, and community well-being. By uniting key stakeholders, the initiative aims to create a stronger, healthier, and more connected Avery County.