Douglas County is taking a firm stand against the opioid crisis with over $1 million in grant funding aimed at bolstering local efforts. The Board of Douglas County Commissioners, earlier this week, revealed the recipients of the sizeable grants, showing a commitment to a multi-front battle against substance abuse.
The funding allocation includes $72,817 to All Health Network for case management, a $65,000 grant to Valley Hope of Parker also for case management, and $198,171 to Hard Beauty Foundation for peer support services, according to Douglas County. Additionally, Sky Ride Colorado will receive nearly $100,000 specifically for transportation services while Douglas County School District has been earmarked $124,000 for youth prevention initiatives. SE2 has been granted a significant $360,000 for awareness campaigns, and the Douglas County Community Response Team is set to use $209,000 for a comprehensive data analysis initiative.
The Region 12 Opioid Abatement Council, representing Douglas County, has taken charge by strategically allocating the opioid settlement funds. These funds are specifically meant to plug gaps in services and amplify the impact of prevention, treatment, and recovery for those dealing with opioid use disorder and other related mental health issues. The Council had disseminated a call for proposals back in January, targeting entities capable of executing these essential programs.
In a series of legal settlements from 2020 to 2021, Johnson & Johnson and the nation's three largest drug distribution companies settled claims accusing them of contributing to the opioid epidemic. The $750 million settlement from these companies is allocated for addressing opioid abuse, prevention, and treatment. Out of this national fund, 60% is designated for regional distribution in Colorado, with Douglas County receiving $1.4 million in 2023 and expecting up to $2.5 million in 2024.
