Richmond City Council approves grants for peer recovery specialist programs to combat opioid crisis

The Richmond City Finance and Economic Development Standing Committee convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss critical initiatives aimed at addressing the ongoing opioid crisis in the city. A significant focus of the meeting was the approval of a grant agreement with Caritas to fund a peer recovery specialist training program, which is set to receive $198,380 from the National Opioid Settlement Fund.

Mike Fotula, the city's opioid response coordinator, presented the proposal, emphasizing the importance of peer recovery specialists in providing nonclinical, person-centered support for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. These specialists, who have lived experience with addiction, play a vital role in guiding clients toward sustainable recovery. Fotula highlighted that for every dollar spent on prevention and treatment services, there is an expected return of $4 in healthcare savings and $7 in criminal justice savings, underscoring the program's potential economic benefits.

The committee also heard from Benjamin Carr, a certified peer recovery specialist and director of recovery services at Caritas. Carr shared his personal journey of recovery and the transformative impact of peer support, stating that the connection between individuals in recovery is unparalleled. He expressed optimism about the program's goal to train at least 40 new peer specialists in the coming year, which will enhance community engagement and support for those in need.

In addition to the Caritas agreement, the committee reviewed three other grant agreements with local organizations, including the McShin Foundation and the St. Luke Legacy Center, all aimed at expanding peer recovery services in Richmond. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to combat the opioid epidemic, which has become a leading cause of death in the city.

The committee unanimously recommended forwarding the Caritas grant agreement to the city council for approval, reflecting a collaborative effort to strengthen the city's response to the opioid crisis. The discussions highlighted the critical need for community-based solutions and the importance of integrating peer support into the continuum of care for individuals affected by substance use disorders.

As Richmond continues to grapple with the opioid epidemic, the initiatives discussed in this meeting represent a proactive approach to not only reduce overdose fatalities but also to foster hope and recovery within the community. The anticipated next steps include finalizing the grant agreements and implementing the training programs, which are expected to make a significant impact on the lives of many residents.