Opioid Settlement Funds
About the Settlement Funds
Palmer is receiving funding as part of national settlements with opioid manufacturers and distributors. These funds are intended to support prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery efforts related to the opioid crisis in our community.
Through these settlements, 40% of Massachusetts' share is distributed directly to municipalities like Palmer. The town is committed to using these funds transparently and effectively to make a positive impact.
How Funds Can Be Used
Eligible uses of these funds include:
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Prevention and education programs
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Harm reduction strategies (e.g., naloxone distribution)
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Access to treatment and recovery services
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Support for individuals and families affected by substance-use disorder
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Community outreach and training
These categories follow statewide guidelines and are informed by community input.
Grant Opportunities
Palmer will be accepting grant proposals on a rolling basis. Applications will be reviewed by the Palmer for Tomorrow Committee. Successful applications will be forwarded to the Town Manager for final approval. Once approved, funding disbursement will occur within approximately 30 days.
Key details include:
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Unspent funds will remain available for future years.
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If funds are exhausted in a given year, applicants may reapply in the next fiscal year (July 1 – June 30).
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Any applicant, whether funded or not, may apply in future years.
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Applicants may submit more than one proposal per year, provided each is for a separate program.
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Funds awarded should be spent within one year of disbursement.
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A final report must be submitted to the Opioid Settlement Committee shortly after program completion.
Stay Informed and Get Involved
Meetings of the Opioid Settlement Fund Advisory Committee are open to the public. Residents are encouraged to attend and learn more about how decisions are made.
Meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday every month at 3 pm at the Palmer Public Library.
Visit the committee page for meeting dates, agendas, and minutes:
Palmer for Tomorrow Committee Page
Palmer for Tomorrow Committee Page
Additional Resources
Contact
For questions or more information, please contact; pftgrants@googlegroups.com or Nicole Gauthier, Health Director/ MTRAC Supervisor.
Download the Grant Application
Click the document below