ORLANDO, Fla. (January 10, 2025) – New data from Project Opioid reveal a historic 7.3% decline in overdose deaths across Central Florida, with fatalities in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties dropping from a record high of 732 in 2021 to 682 in 2023. This local progress reflects broader trends, with CDC data showing a 1.5% decrease nationwide in 2023—the first decline in five years—and a 5.9% drop statewide in Florida.
While encouraging, leaders caution against complacency. Overdose deaths remain two to three times higher than a decade ago, fueled by the rise of fentanyl. “With roughly 100,000 Americans and close to 7,000 Floridians still losing their lives each year, this crisis is far from over,” said Andrae Bailey, founder of Project Opioid.
In 2024 alone, Project Opioid distributed over 100,000 doses of naloxone and conducted more than 100 overdose reversal trainings across Central Florida. “Naloxone is saving lives, but we must continue to act boldly, getting tools into the hands of those who need them most while expanding treatment and recovery options,” said Bailey.
Dennis Lemma, Sheriff of Seminole County, where overdose deaths fell by more than 40% last year, highlighted the importance of collaboration: “This decline is a direct result of a united effort between public safety, government, faith-based organizations, healthcare partners, and an educated, compassionate community. It demonstrates what’s possible when we all come together to implement lifesaving strategies that address the true needs of those we serve.”
About Project Opioid
Since its founding in 2019, Project Opioid has united leaders from government, law enforcement, healthcare, business, and faith-based organizations across Central Florida to tackle the opioid crisis. The organization focuses on preventative efforts, life-saving interventions, and community-wide education to address the risks posed by fentanyl and other powerful opioids.
