Baltimore Will Launch Opioid Grant Programs

The city will open applications on October 19 for funding to combat the local opioid crisis through community initiatives.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Substance Abuse

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing a geometric brick building silhouette and a stylized sprout, symbolizing city community health grant initiatives. — Baltimore will begin accepting applications on October 19 for over $4 million in community grants funded by opioid company settlements to support local health initiatives. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe local community-led programs are the most effective use of city opioid settlement funds?

Beginning October 19, Baltimore will launch a new application process for $4 million in community grants and $300,000 in microgrants. These funds, derived from opioid company settlements, aim to support local organizations addressing the epidemic.

Why it matters

The program seeks to leverage local institutional knowledge to provide targeted support in areas most affected by the opioid crisis. By directing funds into neighborhood revitalization and peer-assisted services, the city hopes to mitigate the impact of the epidemic.

The city is distributing $4 million in community grants worth up to $500,000 annually and $300,000 in $25,000 microgrants. Applicants for microgrants must maintain an operating budget below $500,000.

The players

Restitution Advisory Board

This body is responsible for overseeing the grant award process for the city's opioid settlement funds.

Baltimore

This city is directing settlement funds toward community-based organizations to combat its local opioid epidemic.

The details

The grant programs focus on neighborhood revitalization, the creation of 24/7 safe spaces, and the provision of peer-assisted services. Microgrants are specifically designed to provide supportive services for Black males over age 55, who represent a demographic with high overdose rates.

Applications for both grant programs open on October 19.

Health Landscape

This initiative follows the structure established by the National Opioid Settlement to allocate funds at the local level. It reflects a broader trend of municipal governments utilizing settlement payouts to expand community-based health and peer-support infrastructure.

These grants will expand the availability of peer-assisted services and 24/7 safe spaces for residents struggling with substance use. The focus on older Black males provides tailored resources for a high-risk demographic that has faced significant barriers to care.

The takeaway

Organizations looking to apply should ensure their operating budgets meet the specific requirements outlined for microgrants and community grants. These resources are designed to strengthen the city's ability to provide localized care and support for vulnerable populations.