In 2023, Rebecca Like, Kauaʻi Prosecutor, approached the Hawaiʻi Island Fentanyl Task Force (HIFTF) about providing training on how to launch a fentanyl-focused coalition. Subsequently, the HIFTF provided a two-day training for all counties, with the small group from Kauaʻi returning home and immediately bringing the Kauaʻi Fentanyl Task Force to life. The task force started as and remains a grassroots- and grasstops-led volunteer organization without about 20 partnering agencies and individuals.
Our mission is to reduce the demand and supply of illicit drugs in all age groups, especially fentanyl through education, prevention, treatment, harm reduction and recovery support activities, and to collaborate with faith-based organizations, law enforcement, first responders, the justice system, and other public and private agencies.
A community that is aware, informed, and empowered to prevent drug addiction, avoid dangerous substances, and respond with compassion to community members suffering from fentanyl's impacts.