Press Release: Opioid Funding Awarded

The Beltrami County Board of Commissioners authorized the release of over $70,000 from the opioid settlement fund to community organizations in Beltrami County to support opioid use remediation. After accepting applications in early 2025, the Opioid Steering Committee evaluated the request for proposals and provided recommendations to the Board. On June 3, 2025 the Board unanimously approved the recommendation.

The opioid settlement funding is intended to mitigate the affects of opioid abuse. Public Health retains a portion of the settlement funding to support their efforts through County programs. Some of these efforts include the distribution of sharps containers for the safe disposal of used syringes, disposal of sharps and education. Public Health created a resource library on the Beltrami County website that includes information related to the opioid epidemic and other hazards. The Opioid Steering Committee also has a website that compiles local, state and national resources to combat opioid misuse.

Community engagement is a priority for the Opioid Steering Committee and have participated in several community events from city council meetings, attending the Red Lake Opioid Summits, Red Lake Community Wellness Gathering and many meetings with various local organizations and events. Public Health nor the Opioid Steering Committee can take the task fighting opioid abuse alone which is why community partners are an integral part of the process. Five applicants were funded including:

Face It Together ($10,000) for treatment/connections to care peer support.

Bemidji Fire Department ($4050) for treatment opioid use disorder/operational readiness training.

Stellher Human Services ($21,000) treatment/support for people in recovery and transportation.

Nameless Coalition for Homeless ($30,000) for treatment/support for people in recovery and staffing.

State of Minnesota Drug Court ($5,000) treatment/support for people in recovery and operational supplies.

As the impacts of opioid abuse are still present in our communities, the efforts of Public Health, the Opioid Steering Committee, Beltrami County and all of our partners together are making a safer community. If you need any assistance or would like additional information, do not hesitate to contact the Public Health Office at 218-333-8140.