CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (August 12, 2024) – The North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) recognized Carteret County with the Excellence in Innovation Award during its 117th annual conference last week. The award honors the county's efforts to combat the opioid crisis through the establishment of the Post Overdose Response Team (PORT).
The PORT program, administered by the Consolidated Human Services’ Health Department, was developed in collaboration with the County Board of Commissioners and community partners. It aims to raise public awareness about opioid addiction and overdose prevention, invest in treatment interventions, and strengthen recovery resources. Funding from the N.C. Opioid Settlement helped establish the program, which now provides treatment services, naloxone distribution, and educational resources to individuals and families.
"The PORT program is a vital tool in our fight against the opioid epidemic," said Jimmy Farrington, Chairman of the Carteret County Board of Commissioners. "By connecting with individuals who have experienced an overdose and providing them with the resources they need to recover, we are saving lives and building a stronger community.”
Since its launch in August 2023, the PORT program has provided real-time response and support to individuals experiencing overdoses, achieving a 90% contact rate within 24 hours while working closely with EMS and law enforcement. The program has served more than 270 clients, distributed over 700 naloxone kits, facilitated treatment entry for more than 115 individuals, and assisted in over 150 opioid reversals. In addition to direct intervention, PORT has supported numerous families affected by addiction, offering guidance throughout their interactions. The team’s outreach efforts have also included presentations at public schools, community colleges, non-profit organizations, local community groups, and first responder agencies.
This was one of 13 Excellence in Innovation Awards given this year by NCACC to county governments in North Carolina for programs that help improve services to residents. This is the first time Carteret County has earned the Excellence in Innovation Award.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact the PORT program at (252) 247-1129 or postODteam@carteretcountync.gov. Referrals can be made by anyone, including wellness centers, recovery centers, and behavioral health professionals. Learn more about the PORT program at https://carteretcountync.gov/2339/PORT-Program.
About the NCACC Excellence in Innovation Awards
In partnership with Civic Federal Credit Union, the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) presents the Excellence in Innovation Awards to recognize county programs that demonstrate innovative solutions and cost or resource savings. Each year, outstanding county programs are honored across various categories, including general government, health and human services, public information and participation, and intergovernmental collaboration. The 2024 Excellence in Innovation Award winners were announced during the NCACC 117th Annual Conference on Thursday, August 8, in Forsyth County.
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