Volusia County Council Commits $1.3 Million to Three Projects in Fight Against the Opioid Epidemic

Posted On: April 3, 2025

During its meeting on Tuesday, April 1, the Volusia County Council approved a funding package totaling $1,323,174 to three agencies committed to enhancing substance abuse treatment and prevention in the community. This financial commitment through the use of the Opioid Abatement Settlement funds underscores the County's heightened efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and strengthen public health through strategic intervention and support.

The First Step Shelter will receive $339,487 to expand its comprehensive services, including emergency and transitional shelter, case management, and medication-assisted treatment. This project will focus on preventing homelessness and relapse by enhancing coordination, transportation for medical and behavioral care, and peer recovery support.

The Hearthstone Fellowship Foundation has been allocated $483,687 to extend its recovery housing and evidence-based treatment modalities. The funding will enable the foundation to increase the availability of substance use disorder and mental health treatments in the community. The foundation's approach includes a mix of recovery housing, case management, and telehealth services, emphasizing safe and sustainable recovery environments.

The Neighborhood Center of West Volusia will use its $500,000 grant to implement the Steps Program, which provides comprehensive support integrating housing, treatment services, and outreach efforts. Targeting high-risk individuals, the program will focus on preventing homelessness and relapse through case management, outpatient treatment, and essential daily support, aiming for a significant, lasting impact on the community.