Gov. Gianforte, DPHHS Partner With Lewis and Clark County Sheriff on Angel Initiative

Press Release

Today with Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Director Adam Meier, Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton, and Todd Wilson of the Helena Indian Alliance, Governor Greg Gianforte emphasized the state's commitment to combating addiction and increasing access to treatment through the state's new Angel Initiative.

"Addressing the substance use crisis in Montana requires creative solutions and thinking outside of the box. That's what we're doing with the Angel Initiative," Governor Gianforte said. "By partnering with sheriffs and treatment providers across the state, we aim to reduce the stigma associated with treatment and guide more individuals on the path to recovery."

A collaborative effort among Gov. Gianforte, DPHHS, participating local law enforcement agencies, and treatment providers, the Angel Initiative allows an individual struggling with addiction and substance use to go into any participating law enforcement office and receive assistance to get connected with treatment.

To date, 20 Montana sheriffs have committed to join the effort. After receiving training from the state, sheriffs in Cascade County and Lewis and Clark County are considered in active status. The online state map indicates counties that have received training and are considered active as well as those that will be active once officials receive training.

"As we continue to expand the new initiative in Montana, we're thankful for the partnership with Lewis and Clark County," Meier said. "Montana continues to experience spikes in drug overdoses statewide, and we cannot continue down the current path. Access to treatment is key, and by working together I'm confident we can make a difference in Montana and save lives in the process."

At an event today at the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff's Office, Sheriff Leo Dutton emphasized the harsh reality substance use has in the county. "I see on a daily basis the impact substance use is having in our communities, and we just have to redouble our efforts to improve access to treatment," he said.

A toll-free number connects law enforcement to the Angel Line where a mental health professional will assess the level of care an individual may need. If there is no availability in the local community, the Angel Line will provide alternate options for treatment in nearby communities. A placement for treatment is not guaranteed, and the participant may be placed on a wait list.

DPHHS has worked with the Behavioral Health Alliance of Montana to enroll substance use treatment providers. Todd Wilson of the Helena Indian Alliance, who joined the governor, director, and sheriff at today's event, is one of 10 participating providers that collectively serve 33 counties.

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