Manatee County has announced the opening of applications for the Opioid Impact Grant, a significant initiative aimed at combating the opioid crisis within the community. Local agencies that provide substance abuse and mental health services are encouraged to apply by the deadline of May 1, 2025.
Background
In 2018, the State of Florida took legal action against opioid manufacturers and distributors, holding them accountable for their roles in the opioid epidemic. As a result of this lawsuit, Manatee County is set to receive $43 million in regional abatement funds over the next 18 years. These funds are designated to support a variety of programs aimed at addressing substance abuse and mental health challenges in the region.
Grant Details
The Opioid Impact Grant is designed to empower local organizations by providing financial support to expand, enhance, or create new programs that mitigate the effects of the opioid epidemic. Priority will be given to proposals that align with the Florida Opioid Allocation and Statewide Response Agreement and address the funding priorities outlined therein.
Manatee County At-Large Commissioner Jason Bearden emphasized the county’s dedication to tackling the opioid crisis:
“Manatee County is committed to addressing the opioid crisis head-on, and the Opioid Impact Grant is a critical step in supporting our community’s efforts to provide effective substance abuse and mental health services. By leveraging opioid settlement funds, we are empowering local organizations to make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by the epidemic. Together, we can create a safer, healthier future for all residents of Manatee County.”
Eligibility and Application Process
Eligible applicants include divisions within Manatee County Government, municipal and local governments within Manatee County, and not-for-profit corporations that meet specific criteria, such as being incorporated in the State of Florida and classified as a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(6) tax-exempt organization.
To apply for the grant, agencies must submit a fully completed Opioid Impact Grant application form, along with all necessary supporting documents, via email to the Health Services Division at healthservices@mymanatee.org no later than 5 p.m. on May 1, 2025. Submissions will be date- and time-stamped upon receipt, and a confirmation email acknowledging the submission will be provided.
For detailed application instructions and scoring criteria, applicants can refer to the official documents provided by Manatee County:
• Manatee County Opioid Impact Grant Information and Instructions
• Opioid Impact Grant Application Scoring Overview FY 25/26
Contact Information
For further information or assistance with the application process, interested parties can contact the Manatee County Public Safety’s Health Services Division at (941) 749-3500 X1609.
This initiative represents a significant opportunity for local agencies to contribute meaningfully to the fight against the opioid epidemic, fostering a healthier and more resilient community in Manatee County.
Learn more and apply here: https://www.mymanatee.org/connect/news-and-information/news-and-information/article-detail/health-services-division-posts/2025/04/03/manatee-county-opioid-impact-grant-applications-now-open