ABERDEEN, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – Emily’s Hope announced on Friday that it is expanding its Post-Overdose Response Team into Brown County to ensure overdose survivors in Aberdeen receive rapid, compassionate, evidence-based support upon returning home.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Emily’s Hope Post-Overdose Response Team Program to Aberdeen and Brown County. This program represents a critical step forward in how we support individuals and families impacted by the escalating opioid epidemic in our region—meeting people where they are with compassion, connection, and hope. By providing timely outreach and linking individuals to essential recovery resources, the PORT program strengthens our collective efforts to improve lives and build a healthier, more resilient community. We are proud to partner in bringing this meaningful resource to our region,” said Director of Nursing and Clinical Services at Sanford Aberdeen Medical Center, KaSara Stokes.
“We are excited to partner with Emily’s Hope and the Post Overdose Response Team in this important effort to support individuals and families affected by substance use and overdose. Bringing together healthcare providers, local law enforcement, and community partners allows us to respond with compassion, connect people to resources, and offer hope during difficult moments. By working together, we can make a meaningful difference in our community and help save lives,” said Director of Avera Behavioral Health & Addiction Care Services at Avera St. Luke’s Hospital, Jessi Paysen
The PORT model pairs trained peer support specialists with public health and safety partners to reach out to overdose survivors and provide non-judgmental support and resources tailored to individual needs, including free naloxone and training, help with treatment connections, assistance with medication refills for opioid use disorder, and follow-up for up to a year.