The Jasper County Opioid Settlement Committee is now accepting applications for the county’s Opioid Settlement Funds. In August of last year, four organizations across Jasper County were awarded a total of $284,000 to eliminate obstacles that prevent county residents from getting substance abuse treatment. This year will mark the 4th allocation of money from lawsuits Jasper and other counties filed against various drug companies for overprescribing opioids. Jasper County Public Health Department Director Becky Pryor says the funding is awarded based on committee-established priorities.

“We are really trying to keep the money local and trying to reinvest in our community. We are really looking at sustainability with the program. We will continue to get these funds for about the next 20 years, so we are really looking at how we can make a difference in the community and that we have this for many years and generations to come.”

Funding is available for both infrastructure projects and licensed treatment programs that expand or enhance services for residents in need. Applications for funding must be submitted to the Jasper County Health Department by October 31st. Last year’s funding went to Sheepgate, a division of Adult and Teen Challenge of the Midlands, Clearview Recovery Incorporated in Prairie City, Capstone Behavioral Healthcare in Newton, and the Colfax-Mingo Community School District. 

The Jasper County Opioid Settlement Committee consists of Pryor, Jasper County Supervisor Thad Nearmyer, County Auditor Jenna Jennings, Deputy Auditor Teresa Arrowood, and County Attorney Scott Nicholson.