Calhoun County Awards Nearly $600,000 in Opioid Settlement Funding

The Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approved over $500,000 in opioid settlement funds for seven local organizations to prevent and mitigate opioid use effects. The funding supports recovery programs, mentorship, and education initiatives, promoting community health and recovery.

The Calhoun County Board of Commissioners has approved more than half a million dollars in funding for local organizations working to prevent, treat, and reduce the impacts of opioid use.

Seven organizations were selected through a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process to receive 2025 opioid settlement funds, following recommendations from the County’s Opioid Funds RFP Review Committee and support from the Opioid Settlement Funds Steering Committee at its August 21 meeting. At its regular session on September 4, the Board authorized County Administration and Legal Counsel to negotiate grant agreements with each recipient. These agreements will finalize the scope of services and ensure compliance with state and national settlement guidelines.

The following organizations will receive funding in 2025:

Alano Club – $100,000 To support the Recovery Grounds Café, creating a safe and supportive space for individuals in recovery.

CityLinc Ministries – $43,000 for the Second Wind Mentoring Program, which provides guidance and support for individuals impacted by substance use.

Gracious Homes – $108,593 To expand care coordination and peer support services that address the unique needs of individuals seeking recovery.

The Haven of Rest – $150,000 To strengthen Men’s and Women’s Life Recovery Programs, offering structured recovery opportunities and support services.

Share Center – $60,000 To fund peer recovery coaching and provide transportation assistance for individuals working toward sustained recovery.

Substance Abuse Council (SAC) – $55,000 For LifeSkills Training in schools and a county-wide media campaign aimed at prevention and awareness.

Substance Abuse Prevention Services (SAPS) – $82,500 To strengthen the Albion-based coalition task force focused on opioid prevention and education.

“Each of these projects addresses a critical need in our community, whether through prevention, treatment, or long-term recovery support,” said Calhoun County Board of Commissioners Vice Chair and Steering Committee Member Matt Saxton. “The dedication of our community partners gives hope to those affected by addiction and helps build a stronger, healthier county.”

The opioid settlement funds allow local governments to reinvest in evidence-based strategies to combat substance use disorder, polysubstance use, and co-occurring mental health challenges. Projects selected for funding demonstrate the potential for measurable, community-level impact.

As of August 2025, Calhoun County has received approximately $4.4 million in opioid settlement funds. Over the next 17 years, the County expects to receive a total of $11–$12 million, with an annual average of $600,000–$700,000. Each year, the County determines the amount available for community RFP awards, balancing external applications with internal opioid remediation service needs.

The Opioid Settlement Funds Steering Committee includes 25 members representing more than 20 organizations in Calhoun County. With support from Amy Dolinky, Technical Assistant with the Michigan Association of Counties, the committee continues to guide planning and spending to ensure accountability and maximize impact.

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