Today’s update discusses:

• funding towards the distribution of naloxone
• two Indiana organizations helping their communities that need support

RESOURCES

• Since the start of the pandemic, substance abuse has been on the rise and treatment for overdose has fallen. Those suffering from substance abuse may have difficulty accessing treatment, be unable to attend groups, and lack access to medication. However, Governor Holcomb announced this week that he and the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration will be funding nearly $1 million for the distribution of the opioid reversal agent naloxone. By funding this distribution, the state is ensuring that residents at risk of overdosing will have access to the medication.

HELP NEEDED

• The Midwest Food Bank’s division in Indiana fears its funds will be depleted within two months, due to heightened demand from residents in need during the pandemic and a decline in donations. The food bank, which supplies 305 agencies in 72 counties across the state, is dealing with a 30% increase in demand for food assistance during a time when donations are low. Typically, the food bank relies on surplus products from the U.S. food industry, but increased demand for groceries has led to fewer donations from the food industry. The food bank has been purchasing food, but funds are also running out.
• As Indiana continues to take steps to reopen, residents find ways to help. A Fishers woman, for example, has recruited her family to work 70-80 hours a week making masks for healthcare workers and the community. The family, who have called themselves “Project Hoosiers Help Heroes,” is making roughly 150 masks a day and has created more than 5,000 masks thus far.