West Virginia First Foundation Discusses Opioid Settlement Fund Goals and Community Engagement
West Virginia First Foundation members talk goals and concerns for opioid settlement funds
The Journal | Friday, November 15, 2024
By Tom Markland
In a panel discussion hosted by The Journal, members of the West Virginia First Foundation (WVFF) outlined their plans for distributing over $1 billion in opioid settlement funds aimed at combating the opioid crisis in the state. The foundation intends to empower local organizations to propose creative relief strategies rather than funnel funds through the state legislature. Executive Director Jonathan Board emphasized a transparent process and the involvement of diverse groups, including law enforcement and community organizations, to address addiction. The foundation is prioritizing four key focus areas: diversion programs, workforce development, support for families, and housing projects. Community concerns about transparency and the board's diversity were addressed, with panelists expressing confidence in their mission's significance and the importance of local insights in fund allocation.