Chronic Disease Innovation Fund Will Support Opioid Harm Reduction

The Cumberland Opioid Council will help people learn about the dangers of opioids and how to deal with them, thanks to a grant of $5,225 from the province announced today, March 31.

“Opioid dependency can have a devastating impact on people’s lives, as well as their families and friends,” said MLA Terry Farrell, on behalf of Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine. “We are hearing more and more that opioids are a growing issue for our communities. This grant will help Cumberland County residents address this important issue.”

The funding will be used by the Cumberland Opioid Council to implement its Investigating Community Readiness project.

“We want to increase the community’s awareness of the harms associated with opioid dependency, lessen stigma, and assess readiness for new and innovative strategies,” said Sandi Partridge, chair, Cumberland Opioid Council.

The council will receive its grant under the Chronic Disease Innovation Fund. The fund will invest about $300,000 across the province. Eighteen community groups, in partnership with community health boards, received funding for projects to help people stop smoking, reduce alcohol consumption, get active, and eat better.

“Providing communities with the resources they need to increase knowledge, build awareness and take action against chronic health issues is crucial,” said Cheryl Northcott, executive director of operations with Nova Scotia Health Authority’s northern zone.