Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan hopes to reduce the number of opioid overdoses through its partnership with Vital Strategies, a global public health organization, and the Council of Michigan Foundations.

The partnership, the Michigan Harm Reduction Project, has awarded $50,000 grants to 10 Michigan-based community foundations that provide harm reduction services. 

Opioid abuse has been a growing problem in Michigan and nationwide -- and has accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new effort aims to help reduce overdoses at a time when more people than ever need help.

“Overdoses are increasing in Michigan as COVID-19 amplifies the risks shaped by social isolation, racism, and economic decline,” said Julie Rwan, Senior Manager of the Overdose Prevention Program at Vital Strategies. “Harm reduction strategies like naloxone distribution, syringe services programs, and partnerships with first responders are critical overdose prevention and life-saving measures.”