Somerset County loses opioid trust appeal on youth program funding

Somerset County recently faced a setback when the Pennsylvania Opioid Trust's dispute resolution committee voted 5-1 against the county's request for $30,000 in funding for the Movement Outdoors program. This program aims to provide outdoor recreational opportunities for at-risk youth, promoting physical and mental wellness. However, trust members argued that the program did not specifically target opioid misuse, which is the primary focus of the opioid settlement funds. They expressed concerns about the lack of evidence showing that participants were at risk for opioid abuse. The Movement Outdoors initiative has reportedly reached nearly 400 students over two years, engaging high school students who are not involved in extracurricular activities. County officials defended the program, stating it aligns with federal guidelines for youth-focused strategies aimed at preventing drug misuse. They emphasized the importance of providing healthy alternative activities to deter substance abuse among young people. Despite the program's merits, trust members highlighted the need for a more targeted approach to justify the use of opioid settlement funds. They suggested that if the program could be framed as evidence-based, it might qualify for funding. The discussion reflects broader challenges faced by single county authorities in navigating the complexities of opioid settlement allocations. The outcome of this appeal raises questions about the criteria for funding youth programs and the need for transparency in the decision-making process of the Opioid Trust. As Somerset County considers its next steps, the focus will likely shift to finding ways to demonstrate the program's effectiveness in addressing opioid-related issues.