NC Wake County Invests $7.5M Opioid Crisis Funds in Youth, Marginalized Communities
TL/DR –
Wake County, North Carolina, has concluded its community meetings on how to allocate its nationwide opioid settlement funds. For fiscal year 2025, $7.5 million has been approved for use in three key areas: focusing on youth, historically marginalized populations, and the justice system. The funds will be used for expanding treatment access, preventing overdose deaths, supporting youth and families, strengthening access for historically marginalized populations, addressing the needs of the whole person, and community engagement.
Wake County has finalized its community consultations regarding the allocation of its nationwide opioid settlement funds, with the last round held at the McKimmon Center on NC State’s campus. Using public feedback, county leaders and outreach groups will distribute the funds to those directly affected by the opioid crisis.
For fiscal year 2025, county commissioners approved $7.5 million to focus on youth, marginalized populations, and individuals within the justice system.
How the Funds will be Used
Expanding Treatment Access
- $2 million – Evidence-based addiction treatment
- $450,000 – Addiction treatment for incarcerated individuals
Preventing Overdose Deaths
- $300,000 – Naloxone distribution
Supporting Youth and Families
- $1 million – Early intervention
Strengthening Access for Historically Marginalized Populations
- $500,000 – Criminal justice diversion
Addressing the Needs of the Whole Person
- $1.9 million – Recovery support services
- $1 million – Recovery housing support
Engaging the Community Throughout the Process
- $300,000 – Collaborative strategic planning
“This investment shows our commitment to addressing the opioid and overdose crisis, ensuring those affected receive the necessary support,” said Wake County Commissioner Cheryl Stallings. Visit the Wake County Opioid Settlement for more information.
Check the NC Opioids Settlement Dashboard to see your county’s allocation. Read about North Carolina’s fentanyl crisis for a deeper look into the issue.
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