U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) announced on Thursday that he has helped secure a $355,858 grant for the Will Bright Foundation that will go toward helping Alabamians recover from opioid abuse.
The grant was approved by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). At least 36 workers will be hired as a result of the grant, according to an ARC release.
“While it has taken a backseat in the headlines because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the opioid epidemic continues across the 4th Congressional District and across Alabama,” said Aderholt in a statement. “Congress specifically allocated these funds announced today, which are being administered by the Appalachian Rural Commission (ARC), to fight the scourge of opioid abuse.”
Aderholt noted that he introduced Lisa Bright to officials at the Appalachian Regional Commission at a roundtable meeting in 2019.
Lisa Bright is the CEO of the Will Bright Foundation, which she co-founded along with her husband in honor of their son who perished after a battle with drug addiction.
“The foundation helps individuals bridge the gap between addiction and taking the next steps beyond recovery, such as finding employment,” explained Aderholt.
The Unversity of Alabama has partnered with the Will Bright Foundation on the recovery program the ARC grant will help fund.
Local sources are matching the federal money to the tune of an additional $153,292 — meaning the Will Bright Foundation is set to receive over half a million dollars to further its recovery efforts.
“I’m proud to have played a role in securing these funds for such an important cause. I’ve made a goal of my time in Congress to work to protect the most vulnerable among us. This includes those who have fallen into the downward spiral of opioid abuse,” stated Aderholt.
He concluded, “I know that Lisa and the Will Bright Foundation will use these funds to help many people recovering from opioid addiction as well as employers who need reliable workers.”
Henry Thornton is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can contact him by email: henry@new-yhn.local or on Twitter @HenryThornton95.
