10-11-2024 11:39am

COUNTY SHARING

Baltimore County launches grant program to combat opioid crisis

TOWSON, MD— Baltimore County has announced a new grant program to fund initiatives aimed at combating opioid addiction and overdose prevention. The Opioid Abatement Fund, supported by funds from the National Opioid Settlement, will provide resources to community organizations engaged in harm reduction, treatment, and recovery efforts.

“The opioid epidemic continues to be a serious public health concern in Baltimore County, and there’s not a community in the area that hasn’t been touched by the disease of opioid addiction,” said Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski in a statement. “These grants will help us continue to do everything within our power to raise awareness, increase access to services and save the lives of our neighbors and loved ones.”

The grants will be awarded to projects that address key areas identified as priorities by the Baltimore County Overdose Response Priorities, informed by public input, experts, fatality reviews, and interviews with families impacted by overdose. These priorities include community-based harm reduction services, expanded access to medication for opioid use disorder, trauma-informed care integration, family-centered treatment options, education and resources for families affected by substance use disorder, and services targeted to high-risk or underserved populations.

Eligible organizations include private or not-for-profit entities that serve Baltimore County residents, with a preference for those having a physical presence in the county. Projects can request a minimum of $25,000 and up to $250,000 annually.

Applications are open until Friday, November 8, 2024, at 4 p.m. Awardees will receive one year of funding with the possibility of renewal for two additional years based on performance and achievement of milestones.

An informational webinar for potential applicants will be held on Wednesday, October 16, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., with registration available online. For more details and application access, interested organizations can visit the Baltimore County Opioid Abatement Fund webpage.