Porter County Government’s Opioid Settlement Committee launched the Opioid Crisis Committee to combat opioid addiction and distribute grant funds to local non-profit organizations, healthcare providers, community coalitions, and other entities. The committee will distribute $125,000 annually through 2038.
“The Opioid Settlement Committee's primary mission is to support programs and services that aim to reduce opioid addiction, prevent overdoses, and assist individuals in their recovery journey,” said Megan Wichlinski, committee chair.
This funding is part of the larger opioid settlement agreement and is designed to address the widespread impact of the opioid epidemic on local communities.
“These funds are a direct response to the devastation caused by the opioid crisis, and our mission is clear: to reduce addiction, prevent overdoses, and support recovery,” Wichlinkski said. “We’re looking for programs that directly address these goals and make a measurable difference in our community.”
The committee has outlined three core priorities for funding: prevention initiatives, recovery services, and rehabilitation.
“Of course, anyone or any group can apply,” said Greg Simms, committee vice-chair. “However, we are hoping to approve groups that are doing or planning something effective in a creative way.”
Prevention initiatives should focus on educating the public about the dangers of opioid use and providing resources to prevent addiction. Recovery services are identified as treatment programs, recovery groups, and rehabilitation efforts.
Eligible public health programs would emphasize overdose prevention, access to naloxone, and healthcare services for those affected by opioid use.
“In a perfect world, there would be five to 10 groups that stand out,” said Simms. “Our committee would meet with these groups and discuss what they want to do and ask some questions.”
Groups will be selected by a scoring system.
“In addition to these main goals, programs that receive matching grant funds from other sources will be scored higher by the committee,” said Wichlinski.
Not wanting to operate in isolation, the committee will work together with citizens and organizations across the community.
“The community’s involvement is key,” Wichlinski said. “Local non-profits, healthcare providers, and coalitions are essential partners in implementing these solutions. We’re excited to work with organizations that have a track record of success and innovative ideas.”
An additional benefit of this cross-collaboration is transparency. According to Wichlinski, a key part of the Opioid Settlement Committee is transparency with the community. Not only will updates be made publicly available, but additional performance metrics will also be included.
“Each participating program will be evaluated based on key performance indicators,” Wichlinski said. “Our goal is to make sure the funds directly benefit individuals and families impacted by the opioid crisis.”
The Porter County Commissioners will also have input into the process.
“Our committee has been tasked by the council and by the commissioners, to select nominees for them to review,” said Simms. “The council is the last stop for disseminating the money.”
Information on how to apply as well as the required application can be found on the committee’s website.
“Addressing the opioid crisis in Porter County will require the community working together as a whole,” Wichlinski said. “There’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution to this problem. The variety of programs we’re funding will reflect the diverse needs of those affected.”
To learn more about the Porter County Opioid Committee please visit its website.
