GREENBRIER COUNTY W.Va. (WVDN) — The West Virginia First Foundation is excited to announce its inaugural 2024 foundation grant, a significant step in the fight against the opioid crisis in West Virginia, following approval by its board members at its recent meeting. Named the Initial Opportunity Grant (IOG) , the funding initiative marks a milestone in the Foundation’s mission to deploy vital resources across the state, and begins to satisfy its mission to empower West Virginians to prevent substance use disorder, support recovery, and save lives.
The Foundation has allotted $19.2 million for distribution through this first grant application process.
Online applications are due by Oct. 5, and recipients will be announced by Dec. 31.
“Thousands of West Virginians are working every day to help their fellow citizens battle substance use disorder and the myriad of negative consequences of this disease,” said WVFF Executive Director Jonathan Board. “The West Virginia First Foundation is committed and eager to get this crucial funding to new and innovative programs, and organizations already in the trenches, working with such dedication, and truly making a difference.”
After significant review of needs throughout the state, the Initial Opportunity Grant is focused on healing local communities and supporting recovery in the following targeted areas, described by the WVFF as urgent needs:
- Youth Prevention and Workforce Development
- Child Advocacy Centers/Neonatal Abstinence Programs
- Diversion Programs and Interdiction Programs
- Certified Transitional and Recovery Housing Expansion
Each of the state’s six regions will be allocated $800,000 in each target area. The Foundation may issue up to four awards per target area per region.
The Initial Opportunity Grant represents the culmination of extensive work by the Foundation’s Initial Opportunity Committee (IOC), which was dedicated to developing a rigorous and transparent application process. To ensure local input in the development and deployment of this application, WVFF coordinated review with the recently seated statewide Expert Panel.
“We realize the enormity of the task ahead, and we know we have one chance to get it right,” said Board. “We’ve taken the last several months to really listen to the stakeholders and experts, and to review the latest data and best practices. We have protections and standards in place now, so when the funding is distributed, it’ll be done in a sound and transparent way.”
The Foundation will award grants in accordance with the MOU and a scoring methodology based on Evidence Based Strategies, Relationship to the Foundation’s Strategic Vision, Implementation and Sustainability, Transparency and Fairness, and Impact and Measurability.
“With the release of this grant application, the West Virginia First Foundation is taking a decisive step towards empowering our communities to combat the opioid crisis head-on,” added WVFF Chairman Matthew Harvey. “This Initial Opportunity Grant embodies our focus on healing and recovery while reflecting our commitment to spend funds effectively in the service of West
Virginians.”
For more information on the Initial Opportunity Grant, how they will be evaluated, and how to access online application materials, please visit wvfirst.org/grants .
About: West Virginia First Foundation
The West Virginia First Foundation is dedicated to addressing the opioid epidemic in West Virginia by supporting initiatives that promote prevention, treatment, recovery, and community resilience. Through collaboration with communities and local voices, WVFF aims to create sustainable solutions to push back against this public health crisis.
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