Campaign hopes to drive business solutions for opioid epidemic

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation recently launched a campaign to drive business-led solutions to the opioid epidemic.

The campaign, Sharing Solutions: A Virtual Nationwide Tour, is in partnership with the AmerisourceBergen Foundation and iHeartMedia.

Virtual events in every state will showcase innovative workforce solutions and support employers. The events are free and open to the public to increase dialogue in impacted communities and reduce stigma.

“Today, the fight against the opioid epidemic collides with our battle against COVID-19, exacerbating the devastation already felt by communities across the nation,” Carolyn Cawley, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation president, said. “By launching this virtual national tour and tapping into the reach and expertise of our partner iHeartMedia, we hope to arm employers – and communities in every corner of the country – with the right tools and resources, so they are prepared and empowered to address the double impact of COVID-19 and a resurgent opioid crisis.”

The first event was held Monday in Louisiana with a townhall-style conversation.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 40 states have reported opioid-related mortality increases.

The Sharing Solutions initiative launched in 2019 to bring together expertise from multiple sectors to help employers and employees create a drug-free workplace.