Delaware Launches $13M Grant Round to Combat the Opioid Crisis: What You Need to Know

Delaware is taking another crucial step in its ongoing battle against the opioid crisis. As part of its efforts to address the public health emergency caused by opioid addiction, the Delaware Prescription Opioid Settlement Distribution Commission (POSDC) recently launched the third round of its grant funding program. With approximately $13 million available, this round of grants is aimed at supporting local initiatives that focus on addiction recovery, prevention, and long-term support for those impacted by opioid use disorder.

This funding is part of Delaware’s broader strategy to use funds recovered from opioid settlements with pharmaceutical companies. The goal is to drive real, tangible change for those affected by the epidemic and to further empower organizations on the front lines of this battle.

What’s the Purpose of These Grants?

Joanna Champney, co-chair of the POSDC, emphasized the importance of this grant funding: “This funding offers a critical opportunity to provide real help to individuals, families, and communities struggling with the devastating effects of opioid addiction.” The grants will support evidence-based programs and solutions that show measurable outcomes—ensuring that efforts are effective and impactful.

For Attorney General Kathy Jennings, who also co-chairs the commission, this work is deeply personal. She highlighted the ongoing battle to hold pharmaceutical companies accountable and how these grants play a role in continuing the fight. “We’ve been fighting tooth and nail, often punching above our weight, to hold Big Pharma accountable for the devastation they have caused in Delaware,” said Jennings. “And we’ve had some big wins, bringing back millions of precious dollars to fund treatment and abatement of the opioid crisis in our state.”

Grant Types Available

The $13 million in grants will be distributed across three main categories, ensuring that organizations of all sizes and types can benefit:

• Micro-Grants (up to $10,000): These are designed for rapid-response projects, particularly those from smaller or community-based organizations that need funding for quick action.

• Mini-Grants ($10,000–$30,000): For more structured projects that target specific outcomes, these grants offer support for organizations with slightly larger or more defined initiatives.

• General Grants ($30,000 and up): These grants are for larger, long-term programs that already have established infrastructure and a proven track record in dealing with opioid addiction.

As Attorney General Jennings pointed out, Delaware has already made significant progress in reducing the death toll from the opioid crisis. But there’s still a lot of work to be done. “We are seeing real progress, but now is the time to dig in and double down,” Jennings said. “I trust that this round of grant funding will give us that edge to keep pushing forward.”

How to Apply

Applications for these grants opened on April 21, and prospective applicants have until May 19 to submit their proposals. If you’re interested in applying, there’s still time to attend one of the informational webinars being held on:

• April 28

• May 5

• May 12

These webinars will provide valuable guidance on the application process, helping applicants understand the requirements and how to best frame their proposals.

Why This Matters

The impact of opioid addiction in Delaware has been devastating, but these grants provide a crucial opportunity for change. The funds are designed to help local organizations make a difference in their communities, from providing addiction treatment to supporting recovery and prevention efforts. As Delaware continues to see progress, these grants will play a key role in sustaining the momentum and ensuring that the fight against opioid addiction remains strong.

Delaware is committed to using every resource available to combat the opioid epidemic, and this latest round of funding is a vital part of that strategy. For those interested in applying, be sure to check out the informational webinars and submit your application before the deadline on May 19.

Final Thoughts

Delaware’s fight against the opioid crisis is far from over, but with the help of these grants, local organizations will continue to play a key role in addressing addiction and its effects. The commitment to funding evidence-based solutions and making meaningful change for those impacted by opioid use disorder is stronger than ever.

For more information on the grants, be sure to visit the Delaware Prescription Opioid Settlement Distribution Commission’s website.