DOL Awards $2.8 Million to Empower Ohio Workforce Affected by Opioid Crisis

DOL Awards $2.8 Million to Empower Ohio Workforce Affected by Opioid Crisis

The funding is part of a $8.5 million commitment to addressing the impact of the opioid crisis on the state.

  • By Robert Yaniz Jr.
  • Dec 22, 2023

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has announced additional funding of over $2.8 million earmarked for the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. This funding is part of a larger grant addressing the impacts of the state’s opioid crisis in Ohio, particularly focusing on workforce challenges and public health concerns.

According to a release dated Dec. 15, the DOL in March 2022 allocated an Opioid Disaster Recovery Dislocated Worker Grant totaling up to $8.5 million, with an initial installment of $2.8 million. Another installment of the same amount was awarded in May 2023. This new announcement completes the DOL’s promised $8.5 million commitment for this initiative.

Supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the grant focuses on creating temporary disaster-relief jobs and offering employment and training services. These efforts are aimed at reintegrating individuals and communities affected by the health and economic impact of the opioid crisis—including use, addiction and overdose—back into the workforce.

These funds will also go toward hiring peer recovery coaches, hospital support staff to manage drug-related admissions, including babies born with addiction issues, and social service aides to assist children placed in foster care due to their parents' substance use disorders.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared the opioid crisis a national public health emergency in October 2017. The crisis has had a profound impact on communities across Ohio, leading to increased rates of addiction, overdose and related social issues.

About the Author

Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

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