The state Department of Social Services has started administering a program offering South Dakota based organizations the opportunity to apply for funding to provide direct services to populations affected by opioid overdose.
The South Dakota Opioid Settlement Fund Community Grant Program is funded through the National Opioid Settlement Agreement (involving Johnson & Johnson, AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health, McKesson and a Bankruptcy Resolution concerning Purdue Pharma, L.P.).
DSS Secretary Matt Althoff says the program is intended to actively combat the impacts opioid misuse can have by making the settlement funds available to local groups. He believes these groups will help reverse the trend through greater awareness and understanding, coupled with familiarity with the community in which the efforts are being implemented.
DSS Chief of Behavioral Health Tiffany Wolfgang says the drug landscape in South Dakota has changed dramatically over the years. Many drugs are far more concentrated and dangerous than they were in the past. She says counterfeit pills are now being mixed with fentanyl, xylazine or other drugs like heroin and methamphetamine. The danger is real, and local assistance is needed to assist in combating the opioid epidemic within South Dakota communities.
To access information about the National Opioid Settlement and the SD Opioid Settlement Fund Community Grant Program, visit: https://dss.sd.gov/behavioralhealth/grantinfo.aspx.
During the 2022 Legislative Session, HB 1038 appropriated these funds to the Department of Social Services for disbursement to address opioid use and misuse within the State. The DSS Division of Behavioral Health is managing the program.
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