By Charles Young, The Exponent Telegram
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia First Foundation is nearing a pivotal moment in its mission to combat the opioid crisis, as it prepares to award nearly $20 million to nonprofits by the end of the year.
The foundation received more than 170 applications from nonprofit groups around the state in October, each of which hopes to receive a share of $19.2 million in Initial Opportunity Grants that will be awarded on or before Dec. 31.
“There’s been such a good and diverse group of applicants from all over the state — every corner of this state has been represented in this process,” said Jonathan Board, the foundation’s executive director. “We’ve applied a very fair and equitable approach to make sure that every voice is heard.”
The West Virginia First Foundation divides the state into six regions. The total pot of $19.2 million will be distributed among the six regions, with each receiving $3.2 million.
