In the critical moments after surviving an overdose, individuals often face fear, confusion, and isolation. That’s when the Emily’s Hope Post-Overdose Response Team (PORT) steps in, offering immediate, compassionate support and a path forward.
Launched in 2024, Emily’s Hope PORT is a free, community-based program operating in Minnehaha, Lincoln, and Codington counties, with plans to expand across Eastern South Dakota. This initiative pairs overdose survivors with trained peer support specialists—individuals with lived experience of substance use disorder who are uniquely positioned to offer guidance, empathy, and hope.
How It Works: When a referral is made—by a healthcare provider, emergency responder, loved one, or community agency—and a release of information (ROI) is received, the Emily’s Hope PORT team is activated. Within two hours, a peer support specialist is dispatched to meet the individual in person or virtually, depending on the situation and preference.
Services Include:
- Personalized peer support from someone who’s walked the same path
- A supply of free naloxone and fentanyl test strips
- Referrals to treatment and recovery services
- Telehealth-based guidance and emotional support
- Assistance with medication-assisted treatment (MAT/MOUD) refills (as prescribed by a physician)
- A tailored follow-up plan with ongoing contact for up to a year
PORT specialists aim to connect within a week of initial contact, provide bi-weekly follow-ups for six months, and continue with monthly check-ins during the remainder of the year. Their continued presence builds trust, accountability, and a lifeline of support through the recovery journey.
Importantly, all services are free, confidential, and not connected to law enforcement. There are no strings attached. It’s just support, resources, and a chance at healing.
“Individuals who survive an overdose are at significantly higher risk of experiencing another,” said Angela Kennecke, founder of Emily’s Hope. “That’s why early
intervention and long-term peer support are crucial. PORT meets people where they are, both physically and emotionally, to offer real help at a critical time.”
By empowering individuals through peer mentorship, connecting them to life-saving tools and services, and building a network of care, the Emily’s Hope PORT program is making a measurable difference and saving lives across South Dakota.
To learn more about bringing the PORT program to your community, please contact: Diana@emilyshope.charity.
