“I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things” –Mother Theresa.

In 2023, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported over 81,000 fatal opioid overdoses nationwide—that is one life lost every 6.5 minutes. In Minnesota alone, the Department of Health recorded 947 opioid-related deaths during the same year.

As the needs of our communities continue to evolve—particularly in response to the Opioid Epidemic—HVMHC remains committed to responding quickly and effectively. We recognize addressing these complex challenges requires a collective effort, which is why we are proud to partner with agencies and organizations who share our dedication to supporting our communities and preventing overdose deaths. Together, we can make a greater impact.

Since the fall of 2023, HVMHC has provided space at our Winona clinic for Foxhole Discovery to operate. Foxhole Discovery is a program dedicated to supporting, educating, empowering, and guiding individuals on their recovery journey.

Since October 2023, HVMHC has partnered with the Steve Rummler HOPE Network to become a Naloxone Access Point (NAP). As a NAP, we offer Naloxone Overdose Kits, Fentanyl Test Strips and Xylazine Test Strips at our Caledonia, Red Wing, Wabasha, and Winona clinics. These life-saving tools are available free of charge, no questions asked during normal business hours.

Since their inception HVMHC has collaborated with RIPple Drug Awareness & Education, a non-profit founded by grieving mothers who have lost their children to illicit substances, particularly fentanyl, to bring even more life-saving resources to our community. On February 14, 2025, we partnered with RIPple to install a 24/7 Naloxone Distribution Box at our Winona Clinic, the first of its kind in Winona County. The 24/7 Naloxone Distribution Box offers free Naloxone, Fentanyl Test Strips, Xylazine Test Strips, and other resources to community members. One of the wonderful things about the new distribution box is that it makes these life-saving measures available 24 hours a day.

At HVMHC, we believe the strength of our mission lies in the strength of our partnerships. From hosting community-led recovery programs to expanding access to life-saving tools, our work is rooted in collaboration. Together with our partners, we are not just responding to today’s public health crises, we are creating a healthier, more connected future for the communities we serve.

If you or someone you know needs support for their mental health or substance use, visit our website at www.hvmhc.org or call (507) 454-4341 to schedule an appointment. HVMHC offers Substance Use Disorder Treatment (Comprehensive Assessments, Outpatient Treatment, Intensive Outpatient Treatment) as well as Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT).

Written by: Jen Dieck, SUD Director for HVMHC

HVMHC SUD Director Jen Dieck

HVMHC Executive Director Erik Sievers helps fill the new distribution box