In 2018, more than 300 people died from fatal overdose in Baltimore County—
and the vast majority of deaths were related to opioids. In fact, Baltimore County has consistently had the second highest number of overdose deaths in the state.
The County Executive has established a working group of experts who will gather information and make recommendations for how the county can strategically address this crisis. Additionally, the county has stepped up awareness of resources available to residents. As an example, Baltimore County residents may receive a free substance use screening and referral at the walk-in clinic at the Eastern Family Resource Center.
In August, Baltimore County unveiled five signs that will be erected throughout the county to track overdose statistics. I worked with County Executive Olszewski to break a bureaucratic logjam that was blocking the erection of these signs. The Daniel Carl Torsch Foundation arranged for sponsorships to pay for them.
I encourage you to learn more about this foundation and the work being done to eliminate substance abuse of all kinds.