Chillicothe, OH — A collaborative, two-day outreach effort in Ross County has helped hundreds of residents access critical support in the fight against substance use disorder (SUD). Operation Bridge 2025, held April 23–24, brought together local law enforcement, health officials, and recovery advocates to deliver a united message of hope, help, and healing.
The event, coordinated by the Ross County Health District (RCHD), combined education, enforcement, and treatment as part of a proactive approach to addressing addiction in the community. More than 417 direct contacts were made during the two-day campaign, which included home visits by peer supporters and social workers, naloxone distribution, and treatment referrals.
The community fair, held at the Armory Gym in Yoctangee Park, offered on-site access to mental health and treatment services. At the same time, law enforcement’s narcotics and K-9 units conducted proactive outreach, while mobile teams responded to real-time needs in the field.
Key Outcomes:
- 417 community contacts
- 65 naloxone kits and 131 fentanyl test strips distributed
- 6 individuals connected to treatment; 6 more referred
- Recognition for Ross County’s PORT and key personnel for outstanding service
Ross County Health Commissioner Janelle McManis praised the initiative’s impact, noting a significant drop in overdose deaths in 2024, with 36 lives lost compared to previous years. “While the loss of any life is tragic, this reduction shows that our collective efforts are making a real difference,” McManis said.
The county also saw a two-week stretch without a reported overdose in September 2024—an outcome attributed to consistent community outreach.
Beyond crisis response, Ross County has focused on prevention through education. RCHD’s SUD Program Coordinator, Paige Baxter, reached 909 students during the 2023–2024 school year with drug education and refusal skill programs in partnership with local law enforcement and schools.
Ross County’s efforts have gained statewide attention. In January 2025, the Ohio Deflection Association honored the county’s Post Overdose Response Team (PORT) with the Outstanding QRT Outreach and Engagement Initiatives Award, while PORT Coordinator Kloey Stevens received the Hope Partnership Project’s Prevention Advocate of the Year award in late 2024.
“Progress has been made, but the work is far from over,” McManis emphasized. “Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or neighbor, every conversation and connection can save a life. Together, we will continue building a healthier, safer Ross County.”
To request a naloxone kit through RCHD’s Project DAWN program, call 740-779-9652 or email [email protected].
