The Oklahoma Opioid Abatement Board has allocated $2.5 million in grants to support efforts in combating the opioid crisis across the state. The funds have been distributed among 14 counties, two cities, and two school districts. These grants are intended to finance treatment and recovery programs, educate on opioid abuse, and implement strategies to reduce narcotics supply statewide.
Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who chairs the board, expressed satisfaction with the initiative's progress. “I’m pleased we are able to provide resources for communities across our state to fight the crippling effects of fentanyl and other deadly opioids,” he stated. “These funds will help remove opioids from our streets and provide help for Oklahomans struggling with addiction.”
Among the recipients, Comanche and Osage counties received the largest allocations of $300,000 each. Comanche County plans to establish an opioid task force, offer housing for those recovering from addiction, and provide transportation for drug court participants. Meanwhile, Osage County intends to collaborate with the Osage Nation Health System to deliver treatment, prevention, and counseling services.
The grant awards followed a second round of applications after an initial distribution of $11 million in June that reached 71 political subdivisions in Oklahoma. Entities that submitted incomplete applications or requested funds for unapproved purposes were invited to reapply.
Approved grant recipients include:
Counties: Beckham County, Caddo County, Comanche County, Custer County, Grady County, Greer County, Harmon County, Haskell County, Jefferson County, Kiowa County, Latimer County, Osage County, Stephens County, Tillman County.
Cities: Ponca City and Warr Acres.
School Districts: Lawton Public Schools and Owasso Public Schools.