According to the CDC in 2016 Kentucky was 5^th in the nation for the highest rate of death due to drug overdose. The 2016 rate for Kentucky was 33.5 per 100,000 and has had a significate increase of 12% since. 

Keeping the above information in mind Hart County’s Family and Consumer Science Agent, Janey Cline along with the Hart County Chamber hosted Opening the Door to Conversation about Addiction. With over 40 community leaders in attendance UK’s Extension Associate, Alex Elswick addressed the group concerning the stigma associated with addiction and the importance of community involvement in the recovery process. Hart County Sheriff, Boston Hensley and DCBS Director, Rhonda Robertson also addressed the addiction issues that exist in Hart County. Because of this meeting, an addiction task force was established and recovery resources are being coordinated. The task force is also supporting community leaders in the development of a day treatment and inpatient recovering facility. 

https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/data/statedeaths.html