Spokane County backs Maddie’s Place with $750K in funding

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SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane County has joined the City of Spokane in supporting Maddie’s Place, a facility dedicated to caring for substance-exposed infants and their families, the county said in a release.

Maddie’s Place offers 24/7 medical care for infants with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) and provides support services for parents, including peer counseling and housing assistance.

The Board of County Commissioners recently increased funding for Maddie’s Place to $750,000, effective July 1. The City of Spokane also approved a $300,000 allocation from opioid settlement funds to support the facility.

“This over $1 million funding commitment demonstrates a deep, shared commitment to addressing the opioid crisis with compassion, innovation, and a focus on keeping families together,” said Justin Johnson, Spokane County Director of Community Services.

Since opening in 2022, Maddie’s Place has served more than 122 infants, with 95% remaining in parental care.

“Maddie’s Place is a beacon of hope for families in our community struggling with substance use in our community. The increased support by Spokane County paired with our existing commitments, along with the investment by the City of Spokane, ensures that families with newborns receive the critical care and early intervention they need – helping them build a stronger foundation for long-term recovery and a brighter future,” said Mary Kuney, Chair of the Board of County Commissioners.

Despite declining NAS rates nationwide, Washington’s rates remain high, with Spokane County experiencing rates over three times the national average, the county said.


 

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