CONNECTING THE DOTS: GREAT TURNOUT ON MAY 1ST FOR OUR community conversation about how mental health and substance use are affecting Clermont County

In an effort to foster activities that promote improved mental health, prevent addiction or the harm associated with addiction, the Clermont County Mental Health and Recovery Board is pleased to announce an opportunity for funding.

A total of up to $30,000 is available for programs serving Clermont County residents of any age. The maximum available funding per project is $3,000. The grant period will be July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Any organized group in Clermont County – with the exception of the contract agencies of the Clermont County Mental Health and Recovery Board – can apply for funding. Previously funded applicants are eligible to reapply. Applicants must have a financial structure in place to account for the funds awarded. Funds may not be used to cover ongoing operating expenses or to purchase equipment such as iPads, tablets, or other electronic items. The funds can be used for materials, supplies, and/or food for planned activities. Prevention activities must be evidence-based in order to be eligible for funding. 

Any group receiving funding is required to submit a final report on its efforts and resulting outcomes following completion of the activity. A final accounting of expenditures and receipts must be submitted within 60 days of the end of the activity. All unused funds must be returned to the Clermont County Mental Health and Recovery Board.

TO APPLY:  Please submit a brief proposal that includes the name, address, email address, and phone number of the contact person, a description of the activity/purpose for which the grant will be used, an explanation of how the activity will promote positive mental health and/or prevent addiction, a description of what part of the activity the mini grant will fund if used with other monies, the date(s) of activity, and the amount of the funding request. Any prevention activities must be evidence-based in order to be eligible for funding. For additional information such as a budget template and scoring criteria, click on files below or email Cindy Knoblauch at cknoblauch@ccmhrb.org. 

Proposals must be submitted no later than Friday, May 15, 2026, to: Mini Grant Project, c/o Cindy Knoblauch, Clermont County Mental Health and Recovery Board, 4357 Ferguson Drive, Suite 270, Cincinnati, OH 45245 or by email to cknoblauch@ccmhrb.org.

On February 1, 2026, our office staff re-located to 4357 Ferguson Drive, Suite 270, Cincinnati, Ohio 45245 and will remain there through 2026. During that time, our current building at 2337 Clermont Center Drive Batavia, Ohio 45103 will be renovated into a Crisis Receiving Center. You can still reach us by phone at (513) 732-5400.

The Clermont County Coroner has issued a public warning regarding an increase in drug overdoses that he is calling "significant" and "concerning."

In a press release, Dr. Brian Treon says the rise in overdoses has been a consistent trend throughout the broader Southwest Ohio Region and signals a "pressing need for community vigilance and action."

Treon says his office has "observed a sharp uptick in drug-related overdoses," which includes a rise in fatalities, and aligns with data in neighboring counties.

Officials say the exact substances involved are still being analyzed, early indications are that fentanyl—along with other illicit drugs—are contributing factors.

"Unfortunately, we're seeing a disturbing rise in overdose-related events," Dr. Treon said in a statement. "The presence of fentanyl and other potent substances is putting lives at risk, and we need to collectively come together to address this public health crisis.

"If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please reach out for help," his statement continues. "There are resources available, and no one should feel alone in this fight."

Dr. Treon urges residents to take steps to help keep themselves and their loved ones safe:

• Stay informed: Educate you and your loved ones about the dangers of illicit drug use, particularly opioids and substances like fentanyl.
• Know the signs of an overdose: Symptoms can include slow or irregular breathing, unresponsiveness, and blue or purple lips.
• Carry Narcan: The lifesaving medication can reverse the effects of opioid overdoses and is available at pharmacies and through community programs.
• Reach out for help: If you or a loved one is struggling with addition, confidential resources are available, including the Clermont County Mental Health & Recovery Services Board.
• Call 911: Stay with the victim until first responders arrive.

  "We must act as a community to raise awareness, prevent further loss, and provide support for those in need," Dr. Treon said in a statement. "Every life is precious, and by coming together, we can make a difference." 

Call (513)732-5400