PRINCETON NJ Announcement

Mercer County Announces Second Round of Funding to Tackle Impact of Opioid Epidemic

Trenton, NJ – Mercer County Executive Dan Benson and the Mercer County Office on Addiction Services announced a new round of funding initiatives, totaling up to $270,000, dedicated to addressing the impacts of the opioid epidemic. The County has issued a request for proposal (RFP) inviting community agencies and organizations to apply for these funds by December 23rd.

The new funds are part of Mercer County's share of New Jersey's $1 billion settlement with prescription opioid manufacturers, distributors, and retailers for their role in creating and fueling the opioid epidemic. The Office on Addiction Services and Mercer County Opioid Settlement Advisory Council incorporated input from residents and community stakeholders to determine three priority areas for this round of funding: treatment, wraparound services, and equitable access to transportation.

"Earlier this year, Mercer County announced our first round of opioid settlement funds, which we're using to address opioid addiction through evidence-based programs and strategies," said County Executive Benson. "With this second round we're broadening our efforts to focus both on treatment and on addressing the barriers which so often prevent people from escaping addiction. We must provide a genuine path for recovery to all our residents who are struggling with opioid abuse.

The Office of Addiction Services will fund up-to three agencies that deliver treatment services for individuals suffering from opioid use disorder, prioritizing programs that offer a continuum of clinical care. Contracts will be awarded for up-to two organizations focusing on wraparound services that assist individuals in treatment/recovery with supportive housing, counseling, and other critical services that promote long-term stability. Lastly, the office will select up-to two providers to help individuals overcome transportation barriers which might prevent them from accessing treatment or support.

Members of the public can help guide the County's efforts against opioid addiction by completing the Office on Addiction's online survey at www.mercercounty.org/osfsurvey. (Spanish version here.)

The RFP may be viewed at mercercounty.org/Home/Components/RFP/RFP/5391/418. Contracts awarded through this process will run from February 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026, with opportunities to extend. Funding is continent upon inclusion and adoption in the 2026 Mercer County budget.