The Bronx Opioid Collective Impact Project is a collaborative initiative that encompasses organizations and agencies from diverse sectors to reduce opioid-related fatalities and increase community safety by utilizing a harm-reduction approach.

From 2021 to 2022, opioid overdose deaths increased by 3.2% in NY State and by 12% in New York City. According to the State Comptroller’s Office, New York’s opioid overdose death rates already exceeded national rates in the preceding years of 2020 and 2021. Preliminary reports from the State’s Department of Health indicate that in 2022, nearly 5,200 New Yorkers died due to opioid-related overdoses – that’s roughly one death every two hours – and more than 90% of these involved synthetic opioids like Fentanyl.

More facts:

• In 2021, drug overdose deaths in the U.S. reached their highest point ever recorded, with more than 100,000 deaths over 12 months.
• In New York City, someone dies of a drug overdose every four hours. In fact, more New Yorkers die of drug overdoses than homicides, suicides, and motor vehicle crashes combined.
• Opioids are involved in more than 80% of all overdose deaths.
• The Bronx is one of the counties with the highest rates for opioid burden, including non-fatal overdoses and overdose deaths.

Despite these alarming statistics, seeking treatment for chemical dependency and substance use continues to be stigmatized, and for many, it is nearly impossible to find an adequate treatment program that fits their needs. Other opioid-addicted individuals might not be ready to begin their journey toward recovery. Aware of these complexities and to address the growing opioid epidemic, Acacia Network launched the Bronx Opioid Collective Impact Project in 2018, in collaboration with the New York City Council and the Office of Councilmember Rafael Salamanca, Jr., and the Third Avenue Business Improvement District (BID). Click here to learn about our robust network of partners!