Wood County Seeks Proposals For Opioid Settlement Funds

WOOD COUNTY, Wis. (WFHR / WIRI) – Wood County and the Opioid Task Force are now accepting applications from communities and nonprofit organizations to allocate the settlement dollars received from opioid litigation.

This money is designated to combat the ongoing opioid crisis and aims to address its profound impact through targeted interventions, community support, and long-term solutions.

$375,000 is available during this round of funding, according to Sue Smith, Director of the Wood County Health Department. Director Smith stated, “We are accepting applications through the end of the day on October 13, after which our task force will score each application for possible funding”

The opioid settlement money results from extensive litigation against major pharmaceutical companies and related industries. The Opioid Task Force has developed a framework for distributing these funds effectively and transparently. Key areas of focus for the funding include;

• Prevention
• Harm reduction
• Recovery
• Treatment
• Law Enforcement
• Criminal Justice
• Community Grants
• Evaluation/Communication/Stigma reduction

“The response to our first request for proposals exceeded our expectations, not just in the number of applicants, but in the depth and creativity of their work. We’re proud to support organizations that are deeply rooted in their communities and making real change,” said Director Smith

“Funding community-driven ideas isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s the most effective path toward long-term impact. We’re proud to continue this investment,” said Lane Pliml, Wood County Board Chair.

Application materials are now available on the Wood County website, HERE and HERE.

Community-based organizations, non-profits, governmental entities, youth-serving organizations, and other eligible applicants are encouraged to apply for funding. Applications will be accepted until 4:59 p.m. on Oct. 13, 2025.

For additional information or questions regarding the application, please contact Ashley Normington at (715) 421-8911 or via email .