The City of Statesboro will soon accept applications for its “Opioid Reimbursement Grant” program funded by state opioid settlement proceeds. Eligible state and federally recognized nonprofit organizations, agencies, and partnerships can apply for funding to support expenses related to opioid abatement.
The State of Georgia is expected to receive over $880 million as part of the National Opioid Settlement, which includes restitution from the major opioid manufacturers, distributors, and retailers who contributed to the National Opioid epidemic, which has plagued the country since the late 1990s. Georgia will retain approximately 75% of the settlement share, while cities and counties will receive the remaining 25%.
The City of Statesboro has received roughly $90,000 from state disbursements and is expected to continue to receive funding over the next 18 years.
“This grant funding represents a meaningful opportunity to work with local partners to protect lives and strengthen our community,” said Olympia Gaines, who works as the Assistant to the City Manager of Statesboro and will be overseeing the program. “These funds will help us support evidence-based solutions and ensure that resources reach the people and programs making the biggest impact right here in Statesboro.”
The settlement funds are designated for services, programs, or initiatives that have demonstrably reduced the impact of the opioid epidemic within the municipal limits of Statesboro. Eligible uses may include prevention, treatment, recovery support, harm reduction, and education efforts.
Applications will be accepted starting August 18, 2025, and will remain open until all funds are fully distributed. Awards of up to $15,000 per applicant will be considered, with funding provided annually until the allocation is exhausted. A five-member review panel, comprised of community members and city staff, will evaluate applications and determine grant awards.
Organizations interested in applying for grant funding can pick up an application at Statesboro City Hall or download a copy at www.statesboroga.gov/opioid. Completed applications and questions should be directed to Olympia Gaines, Assistant to the City Manager, at [email protected] or by phone at 912-212-2390.
The Statesboro Opioid Reimbursement Grant program is supported by funds from national and state-level opioid settlements, including:
National Distributors & Janssen/Johnson & Johnson Settlement (2022): Georgia opted into litigation, resulting in $636 million in combined settlements with major pharmaceutical distributors and manufacturers. The National Distributor Settlement funds will be disbursed on an 18-year plan, while the Janssen/J&J Settlement funds will be disbursed on a 9-year plan.
McKinsey Settlement (2021): Georgia joined a $13 million settlement with McKinsey & Company to combat opioid misuse. Funds are allocated to expand Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) availability, increase detoxification services, reduce stigma, increase naloxone access, and expand naloxone training.
To learn more, visit www.statesboroga.gov/opioid.
More information on Georgia’s opioid settlement agreements is available at this link.
