Public weighs in on next round of opioid grant funding

The West Virginia First Foundation will distribute $19. 2 million in grants aimed at addressing substance use disorder and promoting recovery across the state. A recent panel in Wheeling included community leaders and local residents who voiced concerns and suggestions about the funding process, particularly the lack of applications in the initial round. This new round of grants will adopt a merit-based approach, focusing on five target areas: foster care, youth prevention, recovery housing, workforce development, and re-entry programs. Dr.

Steven Corder, a WVFF board member, emphasized the need to identify areas of greatest need for effective investment. Residents like Mary Reinbold stressed the importance of supporting foster care to mitigate trauma among children affected by substance use. Vincent DeGeorge urged that the funding should primarily support treatment initiatives rather than law enforcement. The panel encouraged organizations in the Northern Panhandle to apply for the grants to ensure that the funds are utilized effectively. This initiative represents a significant financial commitment to combating the opioid crisis in West Virginia, stemming from legal settlements with opioid manufacturers.