Burlington Review

The Burlington County Board of Commissioners has announced the approval of funding aimed at supporting substance use prevention programs across all 40 municipalities within the county. A total of $200,000 will be allocated from the county's opioid settlement funds, with each municipality receiving a $5,000 grant. These funds will assist in launching new programs or sustain existing ones in various communities or school districts.

Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson commented on the initiative, stating, “Burlington County has made tremendous progress eliminating the stigma surrounding substance use disorder and other mental health conditions, but we know the job is not finished. Awarding this funding to all 40 municipalities ensures that substance use prevention programs will start or continue across our county so that all children and families can benefit from them.”

The provision of these grants does not require municipalities to provide matching funds. Towns will be informed about the grant opportunities and the process to request the allocation designated for them. Existing municipal alliance groups may use the funds to bolster their evidence-based programs.

This funding initiative derives from the recommendations of the Burlington County Regional Advisory Council, which was tasked with formulating strategies for effectively utilizing the county's share of opioid settlement funds. Additional actions inspired by the council include the expansion of the Hope One mobile outreach initiative. This has led to the establishment of Hope One For Youth, a unit focused on aiding children and teenagers in the county.

Furthermore, the county has initiated and expanded Camp Cardinal, a dedicated day camp at YMCA of the Pines in Medford. This program targets children affected by substance use disorder, either through bereavement or familial impacts.

Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel, who holds the liaison role to Burlington County schools, emphasized the county's commitment to substance use prevention. She noted, “Our Board has made substance use prevention and support services a priority and we continue to bring education and resources directly into our communities with our mobile outreach units, Hope One and Hope One for Youth, and with our Camp Cardinal day program. Using opioid settlement funds to create and support prevention programs across our county is another proactive step to dispel misconceptions and raise awareness about the dangers of substance use at any age.”

New Jersey Assemblywoman Andrea Katz praised Burlington County's efforts, stating, “Burlington County has prioritized substance use prevention, education and support services for all ages. It’s gratifying to see them take this action to provide support to every municipality for prevention programs. This ensures that all children will benefit, regardless of where they live.”