Flint, Michigan – Flint is putting $1 million in opioid settlement money into the hands of local organizations, with the goal of helping residents and strengthening neighborhoods. The funding will reach beyond a single issue, supporting programs that address different challenges facing families across the city.
For 17 organizations, the announcement brings new financial resources to continue their work in the community. Some will receive $20,000, while others will be awarded as much as $150,000, depending on the funding decisions made through the initiative.
Flint Mayor Sheldon A. Neeley announced the selected recipients during a press conference at Flint City Hall on Friday, October 23. The awards are part of the city’s effort to direct opioid settlement resources toward programs that respond to local needs and create opportunities for residents.
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The city allocated the $1 million to the Greater Flint Health Coalition (GFHC), which opened an application process allowing local organizations to seek financial assistance for their initiatives. Following that process, 17 organizations were chosen to receive awards.
Although the money comes from opioid settlement funds, the supported initiatives cover several community priorities. These include youth services and programs focused on building stronger financial foundations, along with other efforts intended to improve the well-being of individuals, families, and neighborhoods.
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The approach reflects the city’s decision to use settlement resources to support organizations already working within Flint communities. Rather than directing the entire allocation toward one program, the funding is being distributed among multiple recipients pursuing different community goals.
The individual grants range from $20,000 to $150,000, giving selected organizations financial support for their planned activities. The city has not provided a detailed breakdown of each organization’s award amount in the information released with the announcement.
Mayor Neeley emphasized that the funding represents more than a one-time financial commitment.
“Opioid settlement funds give us an opportunity to invest in our community and support organizations doing important work to meet local needs,” said Mayor Neeley.
“We want these resources to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Flint residents. Our commitment doesn’t end with the announcement of these awards. The City will continue working alongside GFHC throughout the year to support these organizations and help their initiatives succeed.”
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That continued involvement will be an important part of the initiative as the selected organizations move forward with their projects.
According to city officials, Flint will maintain its partnership with the Greater Flint Health Coalition throughout the year, providing ongoing support to organizations receiving grants. The assistance is intended to help them advance their initiatives and increase the benefits of their work within the community.
The announcement marks the allocation of a substantial amount of settlement funding to local organizations, while the next phase will focus on putting those financial resources to work.
Residents and organizations seeking additional information about the funding initiative can contact Shebra Bernard, Flint’s Division of Health Strategies and Advancement Director, at (810) 766-7346, extension 2008.