Apply Now: https://www.hhs.nd.gov/news/north-dakota-hhs-announces-opioid-settlement-fund-grant-opportunity
North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) has unveiled a significant initiative to address the opioid epidemic by offering grant funding through the state’s opioid settlement funds. These grants aim to support programs and initiatives that mitigate the impact of opioid use disorder and enhance access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services across the state. Interested organizations must submit their applications by 11:59 p.m. CT on Monday, April 28.
Background on the Settlement
National opioid settlements have been reached with opioid manufacturers and distributors, with North Dakota set to receive approximately $60 million over the next 18 years. These funds are designated for efforts that align with approved opioid remediation uses, ensuring a strategic approach to combating the crisis.
Priority Areas for Funding
The Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee has outlined key priority recommendations to guide the allocation of these funds:
• Expanding Community-Based Treatment and Recovery Services: Enhancing access in both rural and urban areas to ensure comprehensive support for individuals battling opioid use disorder.
• Increasing Services Within Jail Settings: Implementing treatment and recovery programs for incarcerated individuals to address substance use issues effectively.
• Supporting Prevention Activities: Investing in community coalitions and youth-focused programs to proactively prevent opioid misuse.
• Enhancing the Behavioral Health Workforce: Developing the workforce to meet the growing demand for behavioral health services.
• Supporting Syringe Service Programs: Implementing harm reduction strategies to improve public health outcomes.
Proposals aligning with these priorities will receive additional points during the review process.
Application Process
Organizations interested in applying can access the full application guidelines and submission instructions at hhs.nd.gov/opioids/settlement. Grant awards are expected to be announced in early June, with 24-month contracts commencing on July 1. The total available funding is contingent upon legislatively appropriated funds for the 2025-2027 biennium.
A Call to Action
Christopher Joseph, General Counsel for the Governor’s Office and Chair of the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee, emphasizes the transformative potential of these funds:
“These funds provide an opportunity to make meaningful investments in North Dakota’s communities by supporting evidence-based programs that address opioid use disorder and its widespread impact. We encourage organizations to apply and help strengthen prevention, treatment, and recovery services across the state.”
This initiative represents a pivotal step in North Dakota’s commitment to combating the opioid crisis, fostering healthier communities through strategic investments in prevention, treatment, and recovery.
Apply today: https://www.hhs.nd.gov/news/north-dakota-hhs-announces-opioid-settlement-fund-grant-opportunity