(WXYZ) — Michigan is getting more money from the federal government to fight the opioid epidemic.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the $80 million in federal funding on Monday. it includes $36.4 million from a new grant and $43.1 million from an extension of an existing grant.
It will be used to support prevention, treatment, and harm reduction services.
“The opioid epidemic has devastated families across Michigan, and we must continue to do everything we can to end it. This funding will help prevent more opioid deaths and help those struggling with addiction recover,” said Governor Whitmer in a news release. “I will continue working closely with Dr. Joneigh Khaldun and members of the Michigan Opioids Task Force to keep Michiganders safe.”
Officials say the crisis has become worse during the COVID-19 pandemic, with calls to emergency medical services for opioid overdose 22 percent higher from April to July 2020 than during the same period in 2019.
