Tackling Fentanyl in Monroe County
January is a time for reflection, and for recommitting ourselves to the work ahead. As we step into a new year, we are taking a moment to look back at the progress made in Monroe County over the past year and to share what’s on the horizon. While the fentanyl crisis continues to affect families and communities across our region, 2025 showed us that collective action, education, and compassion truly make a difference.
Monroe County Overdose Trends
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Monroe County recorded 38 overdose deaths in 2024, exhibiting its steady decline from 56 deaths in 2023. To continue the trend, Amanda Treantafelo, Chief Deputy Coroner of the Monroe County Coroner’s Office, reported 25 overdose deaths in 2025 to date.
*2024 data is preliminary and subject to change, based on death record data reported to the Department of Health as of December 2025. 2025 data is also preliminary and subject to change, based on death record data reported by Monroe County Coroner’s Office as of December 2025. Final numbers to come in March 2026.
While overdose deaths remain a serious concern, this decrease reflects forward movement and reinforces the importance of ongoing prevention and education efforts at the local level. Behind these numbers are real people, parents, children, friends, neighbors, and a community working together to prevent further loss.
2025: A Year of Community-Based Action
Throughout 2025, we focused on expanding access to information, strengthening awareness, and supporting harm reduction efforts across Monroe County. This work took place in schools, community spaces, and at public events, with an emphasis on meeting people where they are and reducing barriers to education and resources.
One measurable outcome of this work was the distribution of 1,253 doses of naloxone throughout the county, reflecting continued demand for overdose prevention tools and community preparedness.
In addition to naloxone distribution, 2025 included ongoing outreach, education, and collaboration efforts that helped strengthen local conversations around substance use and overdose prevention. While not every impact can be captured through numbers alone, each interaction contributed to increased awareness, preparedness, and connection within the community.
Expanding the Conversation: Dose of Reality Podcast
One of our most meaningful milestones in 2025 was the launch of the Dose of Reality podcast. First airing on July 16, 2025, the podcast was created to share honest conversations about substance use, recovery, and prevention—right here in our community.
Podcast overview:
- Total downloads: 176
- Downloads (last 90 days): 41
- Most downloaded episode: From Bars to Bridges — 85 downloads
- Listening devices:
- Mobile: 74% (131)
- Computer: 25% (45)
The response has shown us how powerful storytelling can be in breaking down stigma and starting conversations that matter. This is just the beginning. More episodes are already in the works for 2026.
Looking Ahead:
What to Expect in 2026
As we move into 2026, we are building on the foundation established this past year and will be expanding our reach. Here’s what our community can expect:
- Additional community events and outreach opportunities
- New episodes of the Dose of Reality podcast
- Expanded school-based education and youth programming
- Continued development of partnerships across Monroe County
- New ways for individuals and organizations to engage with our mission
We’re energized by what’s ahead and committed to continuing this work alongside our partners and supporters.
How to Get Involved
Addressing fentanyl in Monroe County requires sustained community participation. In the year ahead, there will be opportunities to:
- Volunteer at events and outreach efforts
- Participate in educational programs
- Share resources and podcast episodes within your networks
- Partner with WeFightFentanyl as a school, organization, or business
- Stay informed and help reduce stigma through informed conversation
Every action contributes to a more prepared and informed community.
As we begin this new year, we want to thank everyone who stood with us in 2025. Your support, your voices, and your actions matter. We look forward to continuing this journey with you in 2026, because prevention starts locally, and hope grows when we work together.