The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency hosted a public forum Thursday titled “Elephant in the Room” to address the opioid crisis in the tri-county area.
The event was held at the Searle Center on the campus of Hillsdale College. It was aimed at breaking down the stigma surrounding addiction and fostering open discussion about solutions.
The session featured speakers including 16th District State Senator Joseph Bellino, and Hillsdale County District Court Judge Megan Stiverson. Several residents shared personal stories of battling addiction, emphasizing the human impact of the epidemic.
The gathering focused on collaboration among community groups to combat opioid abuse and reduce overdose deaths.
Representatives from various organizations, including Child Protective Services, Hillsdale Hospital, Juvenile Court, Drug Court, Lifeways, and the Overdose Engagement Prevention Network participated in the discussion.
Health Agency officials said the event is part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and develop comprehensive strategies to address the county’s drug problem.