Prince George and localities awarded over $113,000 to launch Mobile Overdose Response Unit

PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Prince George County and other nearby localities have been awarded over $113,000 to support and launch a Mobile Overdose Response Unit.

On Wednesday, July 2, the county announced that it has been awarded $113,981 by the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority (OAA) to support the new unit, which will support not only Prince George but also other localities: Dinwiddie County, City of Hopewell and Surry County.

This grant period lasts July 1 to June 30, 2026, and Prince George is the fiscal agent for the regional imitative, per the county.

“Addiction crosses over county and city lines, and its impact is felt in all our communities,”
said Denise Waff, Director of Riverside Criminal Justice Agency. “By working together, we
are better equipped to fight the opioid crisis and make our region safer and stronger.”

According to the county, the grant includes $60,451.90 in Cooperative Partnership funds, and $53,529.10 in matching awards from the OAA’s Individual Distribution and Gold Standard Incentive programs.

According to the county, the Mobile Overdose Response Unit will focus on the following:

• Prevention, Education and Awareness: Delivering programming to hundreds of children, adults, teachers, healthcare professionals and local officials each year.
• Support for Individuals who are Criminal Justice Involved: Supporting adults seeking detox, counseling and treatment for communicable diseases.
• Direct Services: Distributing Naloxone and fentanyl test kits, and connecting at-risk individuals to mental health care, peer support, housing and job training.

“This regional approach reflects our shared commitment to confronting the opioid epidemic with urgency, compassion, and collaboration. Through this partnership, we are not only expanding access to life-saving resources but also reinforcing the safety net that supports recovery, resilience, and long-term wellness for our residents." Marie Grant, Dinwiddie County’s Director of Intergovernmental Relations

These funds will reportedly enhance rapid response capabilities, provide support for those affected by opioid overdoses and help offer prevention and education efforts for those in the Richmond region.

“Surry County is pleased to be part of this regional collaboration,” said Melissa Rollins, County Administrator for Surry County. “This initiative brings much-needed resources directly to our communities, and by working together, we can more effectively respond to the opioid crisis, support our residents, and foster lasting change.”