BUFFALO, N.Y. — Rep. Brian Higgins announced Monday the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded Erie County a grant to treat opioid abuse. It's a $300,000 grant divided over three years. The funding targets would-be moms, ages 15 to 44, and those who are pregnant struggling with opioid addiction. Erie County is one of only 20 communities nationwide to receive the grant.

Erie County Health leaders say the affected population is on the rise, as newborns go through withdrawal within the first two days of life. They say those born addicted are extremely irritable with a continuous high-pitched cry and are difficult to console. Other signs include an infant's that are poor diet, difficulty breathing and even seizures. Local women's health and service providers like the Neighborhood Health Center in Buffalo will begin to administer the proper medical treatment.

"And talk about the risks of using opioids when you're pregnant and even when you're not. We see this as an important part of our responsibility in this community. Our providers stood up and said we can't watch mamas die and lose their babies," said Joann Haefner, Neighborhood Health Center CEO.

"The success of this program will serve as a basis to help those that are in need, but also give us a basis from which to seek more federal funding at the expiration of this particular grant," said Rep. Brian Higgins, (D) 26th Congressional District.

The Seneca Nation of Indians and the University at Buffalo Medicine are also partners in the effort.