#74 SMALL TOWN DRUG EPIDEMIC: SNOHOMISH HUMAN SERVICES

We invited two passionate individuals Amy Wheat, Opioid Specialist and Anji Jorstad, Behavioral Health Supervisor from the Snohomish County Human Services. They discuss the impact of their reach in the fentanyl epidemic and homeless crisis. Snohomish is a small community about 40 minutes North of Seattle. Many believe the inner cities are where the darkest tragedies of drug abuse takes place although you will hear differently in today's interview. We asked not only about the drug epidemic, but the caring individuals heavily impacting and changing the way we interact with individuals on the street. From creating an internal group of social workers, and assigning certain police officers to highly affected areas, they are seeing more addicts turn to them for help versus running the other way. SCHS is a state funded resource which many believe have little effect on these communities as we typically consider the government as non caring in today's culture. You will hear stories of their impact, knowledge, education, and long term effects they strive to create in their area. For smaller counties, like Snohomish, rural and less seen, resources can be limited and support can feel sparse. SCHS is a light in the dark. Our interview today shares on the efforts to reduce this lack for those in desperate need. Tune in today to learn more!