Fiscal court approves opioid-fund awards for recovery hub, MAT pilot and maternal support programs

The fiscal court approved a package of opioid-fund awards to support treatment, recovery supports and related services. Joanne Free described the county recovery hub’s growth and results and requested $90,000 to continue rent, utilities and peer-support staffing; the court voted to fund the hub for the next fiscal year.

The court also approved $19,900 for a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) contingency-management pilot intended to provide immediate incentives to patients in treatment, a model supported by VA, ASAM and SAMHSA guidance, according to presenters.

A third award of $47,620 was approved for a maternal/prevention program (Embark) that provides OB/pediatric care, mental-health services and flexible financial support for pregnant mothers in recovery. Presenters and staff said Lauren Carr at the state level had reviewed items in the packet.

During public comment, Evan Smith and Devin from legal services (Apple Red) described a proposal to fund civil legal clinics that support recovery (expungement clinics, housing and family-court assistance) and asked the court to consider $18,000; the court approved contingent support pending confirmation with state reviewers in Frankfort.

Joanne Free summarized hub outcomes and growth, saying the hub “is thriving right now” and describing employment and housing gains among clients. Court members asked about reporting; presenters said they would provide required program data and follow-up reports as requested.

All three funding votes passed on roll call; the Apple Red proposal was approved subject to state approval by the designated reviewer.