The Porter County Government’s Opioid Settlement Committee launched the Opioid Crisis Committee to combat opioid addiction and to distribute grant funds to local nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, community coalitions, and other entities.
Starting in 2025 and running until 2038, Porter County will distribute $125,000 annually to programs aimed at mitigating and combatting the effects of opioid addiction in the community.
“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,” Wichlinski said.
Local groups with a proven track record of reducing opioid addiction and recovery are encouraged to apply for funds.
“We’re looking for programs that directly address our goals and make a measurable difference in our community,” said Wichlinski.
In fact, the committee has outlined three core priorities for funding: prevention initiatives, recovery services, and public health programs.
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 overdose rapid treatments like naloxone, and healthcare services for those affected by opioid use.
“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 added. “Local nonprofits, 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, 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.”
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.
