MAYOR’S REPORT ON OPIOID TASK FORCE MEETING OF JANUARY 21, 2016
It is imperative that we streamline and improve communication regarding our efforts to combat
the opioid epidemic plaguing our community.
In Nashua we are an important part of the state-wide effort to combat substance use. Going
forward, we must exhibit community leadership that sets a strong example for communities
across New Hampshire.
On January 21, 2016, I hosted a meeting of the Opioid Task Force which is committed to two
major goals:
e Improving communications between groups that deal directly and indirectly with the
issue of substance abuse
e Identifying the strengths and limitations of our current system and making suggestions
regarding what successes can be built upon and what anti-opioid efforts can be improved
Overall Conclusions of the First Opioid Task Force Meeting
© There was widespread mutual respect amongst the organizations represented at the Task
Force meeting. Organizations were up front about the contributions they could bring, and
open to suggestions about what else they could offer. Additionally, all parties agreed that
there was a need for better communication, and they left with a commitment to that
communication.
o Social services organizations and public entities are not the only groups or individuals
ready to take on this issue. The group identified that there was an “army” of family
members, people in recovery, and those that have lost loved ones who would make an
incredible volunteer corps in these efforts.
o The group recognized that not every pathway to recovery is the same, or requires the
same resources. Some people need sixth month treatment, others may need intensive
outpatient services, and others may simply need a recovery group. A comprehensive plan
responds to all of these pathways.
Participants
Representatives from all of the following organizations participated in the first meeting of the
Opioid Task Force:
NH State Legislator American Medical Response
Harbor Homes & the Partnership for Nashua Police Department
Successful Living/Keystone Hall
Nashua Division of Public Health and
Community Services
Greater Nashua Mental Health Center
Rivier University
Lamprey Health Care H.E.A.R.T.S. Peer Support
Southern New Hampshire Health Systems, United Way of Greater Nashua
Behavioral Health Hillsborough County Drug Court
Nashua Fire Rescue Nashua Prevention Coalition