HERO and Family Guidance Centers Closer to Receiving Opioid Settlement Funds After Board Action

In an emotional meeting Thursday, the Will County Board cleared a path for two organizations combating the opioid epidemic to receive long-delayed settlement funding, following testimony from both grieving families and recovery success stories.

The board approved Resolution 24-314 establishing the Will County Opioid Program, which will allow distribution of national opioid settlement funds according to approved abatement programs. This action is expected to finally release funds promised to HERO (Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization) and Family Guidance Centers.

“These organizations need that money and if we could do that right after this meeting, I will postpone anybody that wants to talk to me about this,” said Board Member Jim Richmond, urging immediate action on the funding agreements.

Katie Hollingsworth, who lost her 29-year-old son to addiction 14 months ago, made an emotional appeal to the board. “HERO has been there for me from that minute forward,” she said. “At my son’s wake, HERO distributed 35 boxes of Narcan, no doubt saving a few lives. This is money that was promised to them nearly a year ago.”

Family Guidance Centers reported significant impact even while awaiting funding. Sarah Richardson, vice president of harm reduction and outreach, told the board their mobile van program has helped 21 people enter treatment since mid-July.

“We serve hundreds of people every week, distribute hundreds of Narcan kits to save lives,” Richardson said. “Our program is comprehensive – we not only distribute hygiene supplies and meet people where they are, but we’re also able to connect people immediately to evidence-based high-quality care.”

The resolution clarifies that while the funds are administratively managed under the County Executive’s office, the County Board maintains authority to determine fund recipients. This had been a point of confusion delaying disbursement.

“I’ve gotten mixed information all along,” said Board Chair Judy Ogalla. “The information I get has changed including up to yesterday as to how we move forward with this and how we can do it.”

The board directed staff to finalize agreements with both organizations so funds can be distributed once proper documentation is in place.