Clay County is making notable progress in its fight against opioid misuse, as highlighted in the Opioid Settlement Task Force’s newly released 2025 annual report. The report details how settlement funds are being used to reduce opioid-related harm, with 7,686 individuals directly impacted by prevention efforts and an estimated $14 return for every $1 invested.

Clay County is set to receive $2,694,343 over 20 years, and in 2025, $192,343 was distributed to four community partners dedicated to prevention and recovery support.

Beacon Mental Health received $105,000, providing peer support services and assisting clients with housing and transportation needs. The Northland Coalition was allocated $65,000, distributing mini grants to grassroots organizations like Excelsior Springs SAFE and Liberty Alliance for Youth.

The Office of Dispute Resolution used $19,000 to conduct juvenile drug tests and offer educational programming to youth and their parents. Clay County Public Health Center received $3,343, boosting naloxone vending machines from three to eleven and distributing over 4,500 boxes countywide.

Residents are encouraged to read the full report, which includes more data and personal stories from those impacted by these initiatives. The Task Force, led by Public Health Director Darrell Meinke and supported by community leaders, continues to drive collaborative efforts.

In early 2026, the Clay County Public Health Center launched the Opioid Surveillance Dashboard, a new tool offering real-time data on opioid deaths and hospitalizations as part of the county’s broader Data Hub.

While opioid overdose deaths surged during the pandemic, peaking in 2022, the rate has since declined, although it remains higher than pre-pandemic levels. Clay County’s ongoing prevention and intervention efforts are helping to turn the tide and provide hope for affected families.

Find more information about opioids and local resources at clayhealth.com/opioids.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.