North Charlotte Today

More than 100 people gathered to discuss the opioid crisis in Mecklenburg County and the use of funds from the National Opioid Settlement to develop solutions. The settlement, announced in 2022, will allocate $73 million to Mecklenburg County over 18 years to tackle opioid issues. The first disbursement of $10.9 million has been approved for community deployment.

The community meeting held on March 27, 2025, sought to involve residents in local planning for addressing the crisis. Mecklenburg County leaders presented their strategies and shared data on the utilization of funds. Over the past year, efforts coordinated by Public Health, Alliance Health, and other community partners included:

- Distribution of more than 10,000 Naloxone kits.

- Provision of Early Intervention Services to 1,135 individuals.

- Connection of over 700 residents to treatment for Opioid Use Disorder.

- Provision of Recovery Support Services to at least 790 community members.

- Access to Employment Related Services for 368 clients.

- Housing Support Services for 211 clients.

- Offering the Syringe Services Program.

“What’s exciting about this work is, not only are we helping people with their addiction, but we’re also helping them to rebuild their lives,” said Mecklenburg County Manager Dena R. Diorio. “It’s no longer just a tragic story—it’s now a story of recovery, resilience and reclamation of lives.”

A 56-year-old resident, Tony, shared his story at the meeting, highlighting his journey from drug addiction as a teenager in Charlotte to his current state of sobriety and stable housing. “I had a grocery bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap when I was accepted into treatment,” said Tony. “I qualified for housing, and I have been sober for five months.” His testimony received a standing ovation.

The opioid meeting was organized by Mecklenburg County in partnership with Charlotte is Creative and RIZE Consultants and featured an interactive program to educate attendees on opioid addiction and available treatments. Participants found the discussions insightful and engaging.

“Almost three years ago, we had to build this initiative from the ground up and I am really proud of the County’s work,” said Robert Nesbit, Chief of Staff for the County’s Consolidated Human Services Agency. “Every number represents a resident who is getting the help they need, and we want to make sure we are transparent with the community about the work as well as getting their feedback about next steps and the future.”

More information about the National Opioid Settlement and its impact on Mecklenburg County is available, along with a photo gallery from the community meeting held on March 27, 2025.