Northampton launches Opioid Settlement mini-grant program

NORTHAMPTON — Seeking to distribute $120,000 in its Opioid Settlement Fund, the Northampton Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is launching a “mini-grant” program, allowing local organizations to apply for funding to help combat the negative affects of the opioid crisis.

The state has begun distributing money secured by the state Attorney General’s Office as a result of litigation against companies in the opioid industry, such as CVS, Walgreens and Teva. It’s expected that $400 million will be funneled to municipalities across the state, strictly to be used for combating the “drug epidemic.”

“This initiative is about putting resources into the hands of community organizations doing this work every day,” DHHS Commissioner Merridith O’Leary said in a statement. “These mini-grants will support practical, community-driven approaches that reduce harm and save lives.”

Municipalities started receiving their share of opioid funds in fiscal year 2023 and will continue to each year over a 15-year period, with funds decreasing over time and ending in 2039. Northampton will receive a total of nearly $1.8 million, getting $239,000 in 2023, $124,000 for 2026 and end with $51,000 in 2039.

The city is committing approximately $120,000 for this year’s funding cycle to the mini-grant program. Organizations may apply for up to $10,000 before a May 15 deadline, with rolling applications to be accepted as funding allows.

DHHS Substance Use Prevention Director Taylor McDonough, in an interview Wednesday, said that the decision to distribute this year’s settlement funds came after DHHS officials met with and interviewed those most directly impacted by addiction.

These priorities, McDonough said, include harm reduction programs, prevention, connections to services, housing, shelter programs and transportation.

“Ultimately, we’re hoping that these mini-grants can keep the good work going in the community,” McDonough said. “We’ve seen a decline in overdoses over the last one or two years and I’d like to make sure our partners are able to do good work and try new creative ventures to continue that trend.”

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, grassroots groups, service providers, and other community-based entities serving Northampton residents. Funding may support initiatives for prevention, harm reduction, treatment access and recovery support.

“Because this is the first time [launching the mini-grant initiative], we’re not sure who will apply, but we’re hoping that it pulls in a variety of applicants,” McDonough said. “That could look like recovery centers, places that work directly with those who are using drugs, agencies that support those who might have lost someone to overdose.”

The launch coincides with National Public Health Week — an annual observance led by the American Public Health Association — that began on Monday and runs through April 12. This year’s theme “Ready. Set. Action.” focuses on turning public health priorities into tangible local impact.

“Applicants can also be places where people receive medical care, holistic care, or conduct public health work,” McDonough said. “Ultimately, what we’re looking for is applicants who can just serve the residents of Northampton.”

McDonough will host a virtual information session, during which staff will provide an overview of the program, review eligibility and application requirements and answer questions on April 17.