Also announces collaboration with West Virginia First Foundation

Charleston, W.Va. – On March 10th, Governor Patrick Morrisey announced awards totalling over $276,000 in Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program (COSSAP) funds to four projects statewide. These funds assist state agencies, local government, and private non-profit agencies offering recovery services for those struggling with addiction.

Governor Morrisey was at the Mid-Ohio Valley Fellowship Home in Parkersburg on Mar 10th, to announce the awards.

“West Virginia has a long history battling the scourge of opioid addiction,” said Governor Morrisey. “Today’s awards will help make a difference in the lives of West Virginians as they combat substance abuse. Thank you to the many local community organizations working every day to fight addiction and support recovery. ”

Under Morrisey’s leadership as Attorney General and Governor, West Virginia has secured more than $1 billion in opioid-related settlements in partnership with local cities and counties.

Governor Morrisey also announced that he and the West Virginia First Foundation (WVFF) will be collaborating on efforts to attack the drug problem holistically from a supply; demand; and educational perspective. Governor Morrisey and WVFF recognize the importance of peer recovery as a key part of fighting addiction.

COSSAP funds are provided by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance and are administered by the Justice and Community Services (JCS) Section of the West Virginia Division of Administrative Services (DAS).

Funds were awarded to the following:

Berkeley County Commission $60,000.00 Funds will be used to continue to provide comprehensive, evidence-based recovery services to substance use offenders in Berkeley County through the support of Peer Recovery Coaches.

Mid-Ohio Valley Fellowship Home $80,000.00 Funds will be used to provide peer recovery support services to Wood County and the surrounding areas.

Tucker County Commission $56,668.80 Funds will be used to employ one or more Prevention Resource Officers (PROs) to act as mentors, role models, and advocates for students in West Virginia schools.

West Virginia Sober Living $80,000.00 Funds will be used to continue aiding in the re-entry process using peer recovery support specialists in Kanawha and Monongalia Counties.