#United States #Monroe #Maternal Health #Opioid Crisis #NEDHSA

NEDHSA's 10th Annual Opioid Summit: A Call for Community Support

The Northeast Delta Human Services Authority (NEDHSA) is set to host its 10th Annual Opioid Summit on June 25, 2026. This significant event will be held at the Bayou Pointe Event Center, located on the campus of the University of Louisiana Monroe. The summit's theme, "Addiction and Maternal Health Opioid Use in Vulnerable Populations," highlights the urgent need to address the intersection of opioid use disorder and maternal health in Louisiana.

For the past several years, Louisiana has struggled with one of the highest rates of opioid-related fatalities, particularly among pregnant women. According to recent data, accidental opioid overdose has become one of the leading causes of pregnancy-associated deaths within the state since 2018. The 2026 summit aims to delve into actionable strategies that support mothers, infants, and families impacted by opioid use, leveraging evidence-based care methods, and compassionate support frameworks.

Dr. Monteic A. Sizer, the Executive Director of NEDHSA, expressed the urgency of addressing this public health crisis: "For far too long, addiction has eroded the health, stability, and promise of our communities. Our summit represents a critical moment for Louisiana and the nation to unite and tackle the challenges of addiction with urgency and commitment."

With over 200 participants expected, the summit will convene healthcare leaders, behavioral health professionals, policymakers, and community advocates from across Louisiana. Attendees will engage in a series of discussions and presentations focused on emerging trends in addiction treatment and maternal care, stigma reduction, and innovative collaborative approaches that enhance health outcomes.

Expert Insights and Voices

The summit will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including:

• - Dr. Monteic A. Sizer - Executive Director of NEDHSA
• - Dr. Vanessa de la Cruz - Louisiana Department of Health
• - Melinda Robinson, MBA - Louisiana Office of Behavioral Health
• - Carrie Templeton - Louisiana Department of Health
• - Ivory Wilson, MA, LAC - Behavioral Health Expert
• - Shena Molina Despain - Motivational Speaker on Addiction Recovery
• - Brandon Demerson, PharmD - Director of Operations, Genoa Healthcare

These experts will provide insights into effective strategies for improving maternal health outcomes and combating opioid dependency within vulnerable communities. Discussions will center around best practices in addiction recovery, the integration of behavioral health into maternal healthcare, and community-led initiatives aimed at reducing stigma.

Advancing Comprehensive Care

An essential component of the summit will be spotlighting the expansion of NEDHSA's R.I.S.E. Treatment Center. This innovative program provides extensive resources and comprehensive care for women who are pregnant or parenting and struggling with substance use disorders. R.I.S.E. focuses on helping women recover while maintaining vital family ties, offering integrated services including behavioral health, primary care, peer support, and wraparound services.

As NEDHSA embarks on its 10th year of hosting the Opioid Summit, the organization remains committed to shaping partnerships that enhance community health outcomes. The summit marks not just the progress made, but also the collaborative spirit needed to tackle these challenges moving forward.

Event Information

• - Theme: Addiction and Maternal Health Opioid Use in Vulnerable Populations
• - Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026
• - Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• - Location: Bayou Pointe Event Center, University of Louisiana Monroe
• - Address: 100 Warhawk Way, Monroe, Louisiana 71209

For more information on the summit and to stay updated on developments in maternal health and opioid addiction, visit the NEDHSA website.