Florida city allocates $1 million in opioid settlement funds to nonprofits combating opioid crisis.

St. Petersburg, Florida, is dedicating $1 million from an opioid settlement to nonprofits providing treatment and recovery support services for the opioid crisis.

Over 18 years, St. Petersburg will receive $6 million as part of the settlement.

The city aims to address resource and service shortages in the community by allocating funds to provide grants for fresh and unique project ideas that are not currently being supported by existing funding sources, according to a news release.

Proposals that provide respite housing, overdose prevention, substance use prevention and education, harm reduction, and peer support will receive grants, with priority given to those that focus on respite housing, harm reduction, and peer support.

Matthew Schaefer, the director of operations for Real Recovery Solutions, stated to Fox 13 that there is always a need for more help with addiction as rates continue to rise.

Although Real Recovery Solutions, which operates sober living facilities in Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay region, is not eligible for grant money, it collaborates with non-profits that can utilize the funds to sponsor individuals.

Schaefer stated that non-profits might provide funding for two to three weeks of sober living, allowing a recovering addict to search for employment and become self-sufficient.

Schaefer highlights the need for more accessible and affordable detox treatment in the region, as many detox centers are privately funded and require full payment or insurance, while others have long wait lists for a bed.

"Our underfunded or noninsured community lacks resources, and Schaefer believes that providing them with a bed just three to five days away could be a significant help. Unfortunately, this short window of time could mean the difference between life and death," said Schaefer.

Until October 20, nonprofit organizations in St. Petersburg could apply for grant funds.