GREEN BAY (NBC 26) — The number of drug overdose deaths in the U.S. has hit an all time high.
More than 100,000 Americans died from an overdose in a 12-month period, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
That number is up nearly 30 percent from the same time last year.
Green Bay officials say this mirrors what they're seeing locally.
"I think as a community, we need to come together and look at the needs and resources that we have to be able to support those in need," said Michelle Pierquet-Hohner, Director of Community & Donor Engagement at Jackie Nitschke Center. "To be able to help those through detox programs to help them get the treatment and support they need to live a much fuller life."
She says the center has seen more people struggling with substance abuse disorders throughout the pandemic.
"The saddest part about these deaths is it’s a preventable and treatable disease, and we know that," Pierquet-Hohner said. "So, when we get a call or people reaching out to us, we do whatever we can to embrace them, bring them in and help. Sometimes it is difficult because of that lack of detox. They need that detox first, but that’s what we’re here for."
