Opioid Settlement

Porter County Government's Opioid Settlement Committee has been established to oversee the distribution of opioid settlement funds to organizations working towards the prevention and recovery of opioid addiction in our community. From 2025 through 2038, the committee will grant $125,000 annually in opioid settlement funds to eligible organizations and initiatives that are dedicated to addressing the opioid crisis in Porter County.

Purpose of the Committee

The Opioid Settlement Committee's primary mission is to support programs and services that aim to reduce opioid addiction, prevent overdoses, and assist individuals in their recovery journey. These funds are part of a broader settlement agreement aimed at mitigating the damage caused by the opioid epidemic, which has affected individuals and families across Porter County.

Funding Overview

  • Grant Amount: $125,000 per year
  • Funding Period: 2025 - 2038
  • Purpose: Prevention of opioid addiction, recovery support, and community outreach efforts related to opioid abuse.

Who Can Apply?

Local non-profit organizations, healthcare providers, community coalitions, and other entities that work directly on opioid prevention, treatment, or recovery are encouraged to apply for funding. The committee will prioritize projects that have a proven impact on reducing opioid addiction, supporting recovery efforts, and improving public health outcomes in Porter County.

Types of Eligible Programs:

  • Prevention Initiatives: Programs aimed at educating the public about the dangers of opioid use and providing resources to prevent addiction.
  • Recovery Services: Funding for treatment programs, recovery support groups, and rehabilitation services that help individuals overcome opioid addiction.
  • Public Health Programs: Initiatives that promote health and safety, such as overdose prevention, access to naloxone, and healthcare services for those affected by opioid use.

How to Apply

** Applications will be accepted each funding year from February 1st through February 28th (or 29th in a leap year). **

Organizations interested in applying for the opioid settlement funds should prepare a detailed proposal that outlines their program objectives, expected outcomes, and how the funds will be used to support opioid prevention or recovery efforts and complete the application. Applications should be sent via email to: opioidsettlement@porterco.org; mailed to: Opioid Settlement Committee, Porter County Government, 155 Indiana Avenue, Suite 205, Valparaiso, IN 46383, or hand delivered at the same address. 

Funding Process

Each year through 2038 (if funds are available), the Porter County Opioid Committee will award up to $125,000 to organizations or individuals who submit successful applications. Click here for detailed information regarding the funding process.

Contact Information

For more information about the application process or to inquire about the committee's initiatives, please contact the Porter County Government's Opioid Settlement Committee at opioidsettlement@porterco.org.

Members

The Opioid Settlement Committee consists of the following members:

  • Megan Wichlinski, Committee Chair (Commissioners Citizen Appointment)
  • Greg Simms, Vice-Chair (Council, Member Appointment)
  • David Wichlinski, Auditor Representative (non-voting)
  • Andy Vasquez (Council, Member Appointment)
  • Barb Regnitz (Commissioners, Member Appointment)
  • Chuck Harris (Commissioners Citizen Appointment, Porter County Coroner)