Recovery and Reclamation: Opioid Settlement Meeting Reveals Stories of Resilience

More than 100 people gathered to discuss the opioid crisis in Mecklenburg County and how dollars from the National Opioid Settlement can produce solutions. The National  Settlement announcement was in 2022 and from that, Mecklenburg County will receive $73 million over 18 years to fight opioids. The first wave of funding approved for deployment in the community is $10.9 million.  

The annual community meeting on March 27, 2025, allowed residents to help inform local planning in the search for answers. Mecklenburg County leaders shared strategies and data for utilizing the funds so far. During the past year through Public Health, Alliance Health, and other community partners, Mecklenburg County has:

• Distributed more than 10,000 Naloxone kits.
• Provided Early Intervention Services to 1,135 individuals.
• Connected more than 700 residents to treatment for Opioid Use Disorder.
• Provided at least 790 community members with Recovery Support Services.
• Supported 368 clients with access to Employment Related Services.
• Connected 211 clients to Housing Support Services.
• Offered the Syringe Services Program.

“What’s exciting about this work is, not only are we helping people with their addiction, but we’re also helping them to rebuild their lives,” said Mecklenburg County Manager Dena R. Diorio. “It’s no longer just a tragic story—it’s now a story of recovery, resilience and reclamation of lives.”

A powerful example is that of 56-year-old resident who attended the meeting. He shared how as a teenager in Charlotte he began hanging out with the wrong crowd, started experimenting with drugs, went to jail several times, and lost family and friends. “I had a grocery bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap when I was accepted into treatment,” said Tony. “I qualified for housing, and I have been sober for five months.” Tony received a standing ovation from the crowd.

The community meeting to address opioids was organized by Mecklenburg County in partnership with Charlotte is Creative and RIZE Consultants. The partners delivered a unique immersive program where attendees could learn about a potential opioid addict, what treatments are available, and how to navigate support pathways. Attendees agreed that the interactive table discussions were insightful and engaging.

“Almost three years ago, we had to build this initiative from the ground up and I am really proud of the County’s work,” said Robert Nesbit, Chief of Staff for the County’s Consolidated Human Services Agency. “Every number represents a resident who is getting the help they need, and we want to make sure we are transparent with the community about the work as well as getting their feedback about next steps and the future.”

Learn more about the National Opioid Settlement and the impact of the investment on Mecklenburg County. 

Photo Gallery: View photos from the March 27, 2025 community meeting.