"Too few options" for opiate addicts: WI could receive $13M if Congress approves Pres. Obama's plan
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- President Barack Obama wants Congress to approve $1 billion to fight heroin and prescription opiate abuse in the United States -- and Wisconsin would be eligible for $13 million.
Over the past decade, heroin-related deaths have increased 500% in Milwaukee County.
Heroin
Michelle Jaskowski
Michelle Jaskowski's sons, Kyle and Darrell Jr. have come close to being part of that statistic.
"I don`t know what it`s like, thank goodness, to lose a child, but I certainly know what it`s like to wake up every day and think, is today going to be the day?" Jaskowski said.
The Cudahy mother says she tried repeatedly to find her boys help for substance abuse at rehab facilities across the state.
"They were full and they had no room. They didn`t take our insurance," Jaskowski said.
They're obstacles many Wisconsin families face.
"We have too few options," Greenfield Police Chief Bradley Wentlandt said.
In a conference call with the White House Tuesday, June 28th, leaders from Wisconsin said the solution starts with funding.
Wisconsin is eligible for $13 million from the federal government for opioid abuse prevention. It would be used to expand access to treatment, reduce costs and support recovery services.
"We find that if we get to the individuals before they become so dependent on this -- they either lose their lives or turn to crime, we`re going to really improve the situation here in southeastern Wisconsin," Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett said.
Jaskowski has witnessed both the destructiveness of drugs -- as well as the life-saving effect of medical care.
Kyle and Darrell Jr. recently enrolled in out-of-state programs. They're now 90 days sober.
"No one wants to be a heroin addict, but it has such a strong hold on you. I think it`s imperative that to save lives, treatment needs to be available when they want it, when they`re ready," Jaskowski said.
The $13 million would be given out over the next two years.
CLICK HERE to access the Wisconsin Department of Justice's Dose of Reality campaign -- aimed at curbing opioid addiction.
