### Tackling the Opioid Epidemic: OneOhio Recovery Foundation Leads the Way

The opioid epidemic has left an indelible mark on Ohio, affecting communities across the state in profound ways. In response to this crisis, the OneOhio Recovery Foundation has been established to distribute a significant portion of the state's opioid settlement funds, aiming to bolster prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts.

### Funding and Structure

The OneOhio Recovery Foundation is a private, non-profit organization created to manage 55% of the funds Ohio received from pharmaceutical companies implicated in the opioid crisis. This includes $808 million from settlements with opioid distributors like Cardinal Health, McKesson, and AmerisourceBergen, as well as funds from the Johnson & Johnson settlement[4].

The state has been divided into 19 regions, each with its own advisory board responsible for submitting funding recommendations to the Foundation's board. These regional boards ensure that local communities have a significant say in how funds are allocated within their areas[2][4].

### Grant Allocation and Projects

Recently, the OneOhio Recovery Foundation announced its first round of grant recipients, with $51 million set to be distributed by the end of the year. One of the notable recipients is the Salem Recovery Resource Hub, which received a $388,600 grant to support its efforts in fighting addiction. This funding will be used to enhance services such as peer support, housing, and transportation for individuals struggling with substance use and mental health disorders[5].

Other regions, like Summit County, have also begun awarding grants to various entities. For example, the Summit Recovery Hub in Akron received $250,000 to expand its services, including adding transportation options and increasing its physical footprint to accommodate growing demand[5].

### Transparency and Public Engagement

The OneOhio Recovery Foundation is committed to transparency and public engagement. The Foundation holds public meetings and has established webpages to provide detailed information on regional activities and grant processes. This ensures that the public is well-informed about the Foundation's efforts and can participate in decision-making processes[3][4].

### Expert Guidance

The Foundation's board includes members with lived experience and professional expertise in substance use disorders. Additionally, a nine-member expert panel advises the Foundation on funding recommendations, ensuring that decisions are informed by both personal and professional insights[4].

### Long-Term Impact

The OneOhio Recovery Foundation's approach is not just about immediate relief but also about long-term sustainability. Funds can be used for a variety of