6AE55B621D47C0D5872584470074C28B Hearing Summary

Della Cox-Vieira, Alamosa County Public Health, discussed harm reduction from a rural perspective.  A handout was distributed to the committee (Attachment I).  Ms. Cox-Vieira discussed Alamosa's implementation of harm reduction strategies and their comprehensive harm reduction program.  She mentioned that it was challenging to find a location for the harm reduction programs and to obtain sustainable funding.

Ms. Cox-Vieria discussed success of Alamosa's programs and noted that out of 61 individuals who have received naloxone, 59 survived.

Kelsey Fife, Mesa County Public Health, discussed harm reduction efforts in Mesa County.  A handout was distributed to the committee (Attachment J).  Ms. Fife described the work of the Mesa County Opioid Response Group and she noted that Mesa County was able to create two safe disposal locations outside of the Grand Junction area.

Andrea Calstrom, Chaffee County Public Health, discussed harm reduction efforts in Chaffee County. A handout was distributed to the committee (Attachment K).  She explained that several law enforcement officers and community members have been trained to administer naloxone.  Ms. Calstrom also discussed difficulties in implementing harm reduction programs, including community stigma and organizing across four counties.