Who We Are

About Southside Heroin Opioid Task Force

The Southside Heroin and Opioid Task Force is a coalition of community-based organizations (CBOs),
healthcare providers and government agencies united in addressing the opioid crisis affecting
individuals across the south side of Chicago, a situation that has contributed to rising fatalities,
particularly among vulnerable populations. Our mission is to foster collaboration within the South Side
community to reduce opioid and substance use disorders, prevent overdose deaths and enhance the
overall well-being of our residents by promoting access to care, treatment, and recovery services.
The stakeholders of the South Side Heroin and Opioid Task Force emphasize the importance of
community education in reducing opioid-related overdoses and fatalities. This education not only
focuses on the risks of opioid use but also provides practical tools for prevention, such as the use of
naloxone (Narcan) to reverse overdoses. In addition to educational efforts, the Task Force is focused on
raising awareness about illegal drug use, expanding support services for individuals affected by
substance use, integrating mental health and addiction treatment, and fostering coordinated
partnerships to achieve better outcomes for the community.
Furthermore, the Task Force advocates for policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels to
increase resources and improve accessibility to opioid treatment programs, mental health services, and
harm reduction strategies. By working closely with law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and social
service providers, the Task Force aims to ensure a holistic approach to addressing the opioid epidemic,
supporting both immediate needs and long-term recovery for individuals and families impacted by
substance use disorders.

A mid-year report released by the Chicago Department of Public Health showed that from January to June 2020 there were 573 opioid-related overdose deaths, marking a 54.9 percent increase in fatal overdoses from the first 6 months of 2019. The report further showed that 59.3 percent or 340 of the 573 people who died from an opioid-related death were Black. The most prevalent areas of use were the West and South sides. Chicago Public Health Data also showed that fentanyl, a powerful synthetic drug was involved in 82% of overdose deaths. In addition, the rate of cocaine-involved overdose deaths had increased by 47%.

Concerned with the increase in opioid-related deaths, the Chicago Department of Public Health with advisement from the West Side Heroin Opioid Task Force helped to facilitate the formation of the South Side Heroin and Opioid Task Force, with a primary objective of reducing opioid-related overdoses and substance use and mental health disorders in south side communities through education, training, crisis mitigation, and harm reduction education. Illinois State Senator Mattie Hunter was asked and agreed to take a lead role as the Task Force Convener.

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2020

Year Established

250+

Volunteers

340+

Charitable Donors

What People are Saying About Us

"I've had the honor and pleasure of volunteering at several of Southside Heroin Opioid Task Force's events. The entire organization consists of honest, caring and sincere individuals who are looking to make a positive impact."

— Chris P.

"I just wanted to say thank you to Southside Heroin Opioid Task Force for all of your help and support. Your organization has been a blessing to my family and the community we live in."

— Angela W.

"Southside Heroin Opioid Task Force has made a significant impact on both my family and our community. Their dedication and support have been invaluable, providing assistance and resources that have truly made a difference. We are so grateful for their commitment to helping others and enhancing the lives of those in our community. Thank you, Southside Heroin Opioid Task Force, for your tireless efforts and compassionate service."

— Eddie R.

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