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Commission awards Opioid Funds to Peterstown EMS

Posted 10/06/25

Photo for Commission awards Opioid Funds to Peterstown EMS

In a unanimous vote during its Regular Session on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, the Monroe County Commission awarded $62,677.69 in opioid abatement funding to the Peterstown Rescue Squad. This investment will equip first responders with critical tools to enhance emergency response capabilities amid the ongoing opioid epidemic in rural West Virginia.

The funds will support the purchase of specialized medical equipment, including two Curaplex Onscope Pro Video Laryngoscopes, two Pelican Drug Organizers, eight Sam Junctional Tourniquets, two Curaplex Select Laryngoscope Sets, one HAL Airway and CPR Trainer, and one LifePak 35 Monitor. These devices are designed to improve airway management, drug organization, hemorrhage control, training simulations, and vital sign monitoring—essential for treating opioid overdoses and saving lives in high-risk scenarios.

Monroe County obtained these opioid funds through the national settlement of multidistrict litigation against pharmaceutical manufacturers, distributors, and other entities implicated in the opioid crisis. As part of this settlement, West Virginia receives a share of the funds, which are allocated by the state to local governments based on factors such as population and overdose rates. The Monroe County Commission has strategically directed its portion toward supporting local emergency services, prioritizing initiatives that address the unique challenges of rural healthcare delivery.

"This funding represents our unwavering commitment to equipping our frontline heroes with the tools they need to fight the opioid epidemic head-on," said Melvin Young, President of the Monroe County Commission. "In a rural county like ours, where response times can be longer and resources are stretched thin, investments like this directly translate to lives saved. We're proud to stand with the Peterstown Rescue Squad in this vital work."

The Commission's decision underscores its ongoing dedication to bolstering local fire and EMS agencies, which play a pivotal role in community safety. "Supporting our EMS providers isn't just about funding—it's about ensuring that every resident in Monroe County has access to timely, effective care when it matters most," added Associate Commissioner Kevin Galford. "The opioid crisis doesn't respect county lines, and neither does our resolve to combat it. This equipment will empower our teams to handle overdoses with greater precision and confidence."

Associate Commissioner Kenny Mann echoed the sentiment, highlighting the broader impact on rural resilience. "Monroe County's rural landscape demands innovative solutions, and today's award is a testament to that. By providing the Peterstown Rescue Squad with state-of-the-art gear, we're not only aiding in overdose response but also building a stronger, more prepared community for generations to come."

The Peterstown Rescue Squad, a cornerstone of emergency services in southern Monroe County, will deploy this equipment to enhance overdose reversal efforts and training programs. For more information on the Monroe County Commission's initiatives, visit www.monroecounty.wv.gov or contact the Commission office at (304) 772-3096 extension 3.