MADISON, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) – The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is awarding grants to help law enforcement agencies address the opioid epidemic.

The Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office is receiving nearly $5 thousand for community drug disposal programs. The Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Office IS RECEIVING $350 thousand for community drug disposal programs, along with programs to keep people with opioid use disorders out of jail and to train staff on treating an opioid use disorder.

Governor Evers says the funding is critically important as it will help law enforcement prioritize harm reduction and help those struggling with substance use.