Pamela Sagness, Executive Director | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
Pamela Sagness, Executive Director | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) has disclosed the recipients of the recent Opioid Settlement Fund grants. The funds aim to bolster initiatives throughout North Dakota focused on preventing opioid misuse, enhancing access to treatment and recovery services, and strengthening the behavioral health workforce.
“Opioid settlement funds allow us to invest in programs that save lives, support recovery and build healthier communities,” said Christopher Joseph, chair of the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee and general counsel for the Governor’s Office. “We’re proud to partner with organizations doing the vital work of prevention, treatment and recovery every day across the state.”
This grant cycle is part of North Dakota's ongoing involvement in national opioid settlements with manufacturers and distributors. The state anticipates receiving around $60 million over 18 years, which must be used according to national settlement guidelines to mitigate the effects of the opioid crisis.
The North Dakota Legislature allocated funds to HHS for 2025-2027 to continue expanding access to evidence-based services. Applicants were encouraged to align their proposals with recommendations from the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee, focusing on expanding community-based services, increasing access within correctional settings, supporting prevention strategies through coalitions, enhancing workforce capabilities, and implementing Syringe Service Programs.
Organizations selected for funding include:
- Heartview Foundation will receive $128,890 for establishing an Opioid Treatment Program in Dickinson.
- ND Training Academy for Addiction Professionals (TAAP) will get $2,496,562 to expand addiction counselor training.
- North Dakota State University ONE Program will establish two Medication Units in rural pharmacies with $140,691.
- Goldfinch Health will use $382,829 for post-surgery prescribing practices.
- Family HealthCare is awarded $1,667,500 for a Sublocade treatment model at Cass County Jail.
Other recipients include USpireND Healthy Families North Dakota with a home visiting program; Southwest Multi-County Correction Center; South Central Judicial District Drug Court; Northeast Central Judicial District Drug Court; North Central Judicial District Drug Court; First District Health Unit; Rolette County Public Health District; Ward County Detention Center; MHA Sober Living Program; Providence House Minot LLC; Community Medical Services.
Each project begins July 1 under a 24-month contract period. Grant applications were submitted between April 4 and April 28 this year.
“These awards reflect our commitment to helping North Dakotans access the support and services they need,” said Pamela Sagness, executive director of HHS Behavioral Health Division. “As programs are implemented we continue to see positive outcomes for those seeking recovery from addiction.”
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