In 2023, Codington County was awarded a Reaching Rural grant to support community members affected by substance use disorder. We aim to build a strong support network that fosters life skills and meaningful relationships throughout the community. Reaching Rural established a facilitating team consisting of Judge Carmen Means, Kari Johnston, Executive Director of the Human Service Agency, Stacy Hendricks, Executive Director of Brothers & Sisters Behind Bars; Monica Everson, Director of Emergency Services at Prairie Lakes Health Care system, Alexis Buysse, Mental Health Resource Officer, Watertown Police Department; and Sara Foust, Director of Codington County Community Services.
A Substance Use Steering Committee was established to guide the work that will improve our community. Through the work of this team, priority areas were identified to improve services for those involved in the justice system with substance use disorder. These priority areas are:
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Peer Recovery Support – Individuals with lived experience helping others in recovery
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Sober Housing – Safe and supportive living environments
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Supportive Programs – Resources and Case Management support to aid long-term recovery
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Diversion, Deflection & Re-entry Programs – Alternatives to incarceration and reentry support
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Community Education – Naloxone training, distribution, and addressing stigma associated with those involved in the legal system who have a substance use disorder
As a result of the community collaboration, Codington County was awarded the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Program (COSSUP) grant for $1 million dollars over 3 years. In addition, a $100,000 grant was awarded as part of the conclusion for the Reaching Rural work. These initiatives will allow our community to enhance and expand the work that is being done.