Staten Island Reporter

Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo (R,C-Staten Island) has announced the awardees of Staten Island's exclusive share of opioid settlement funding. This follows an agreement reached in 2023 with the Adams administration to allocate $12 million over four years for opioid treatment providers in Staten Island, which had been excluded from the Opioid Settlement Fund due to the absence of a New York City Health & Hospitals facility in the borough.

The organizations receiving funding include Camelot of Staten Island, Inc.; Community Health Action of Staten Island, Inc.; Richmond Medical Center d/b/a Richmond University Medical Center; Staten Island Performing Provider System; Staten Island University Hospital; The Staten Island Partnership for Community Wellness; United Activities Unlimited, Inc.; and Young Men's Christian Association of Greater New York.

“As Staten Island grapples with the devastating impact of the opioid crisis, this $12 million investment marks a critical step forward in our fight against addiction. The advocacy of health care professionals and our elected officials ensures our borough finally receives the resources necessary to expand lifesaving services and support for those in need. This funding is more than a financial boost, it's a beacon of hope, signaling our commitment to the health and resilience of our community. Together, we can turn the tide on this epidemic and create a brighter future for Staten Island,” said Pirozzolo.

“Last year, 155 Staten Islanders died from drug overdoses. As opioid deaths continue to rise, our borough must receive its fair share of opioid settlement funds that will go directly to the organizations that provide lifesaving services and treatment. I applaud Assemblyman Pirozzolo’s advocacy that ensures we receive this funding to attack this crisis head-on,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis.

“As a borough that is consistently forgotten at all levels of government, it came as no surprise when Staten Island was initially left out of the opioid lawsuit settlement. Thanks to the advocacy of our local elected officials, including Assemblyman Sam Pirrozolo, Staten Island will be receiving its fair share. I’m happy to join my colleagues today in announcing the service providers that have been awarded this very crucial funding,” said Assemblyman Michael Tannousis (R,C-Staten Island/Brooklyn).

“This investment of $12 million is a major milestone in our ongoing battle against the opioid crisis. Staten Island has been the epicenter for abuse and overdoses on opioids, and this funding will enable our local service providers to expand their reach and enhance their capabilities, ensuring those struggling with substance abuse have access to the support and resources they need to rebuild their lives," said Councilwoman Kamillah Hanks.

“This $12 million in funding is absolutely critical for us. Fighting the opioid crisis can seem like a herculean task at times, especially when Staten Island has for so long been an epicenter of the epidemic and the disproportionate impact of opioids in our community. Assemblyman Pirozzolo led the fight for our fair share of opioid funding in 2023, and I thank him for fighting for Staten Island to get the money it deserves. This funding will help prevent more tragic deaths so many of us have had the misfortune of knowing at a personal level,” said Councilman David Carr.

“I want to thank Assembly Member Pirozzolo for being our champion on this important matter. Substance use on Staten Island is an epidemic that is growing, and it will take a village if we are to turn the tide. Thank you again to Assembly Member Pirozzolo and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for hearing our plea for help and stepping up to help our community,” said RUMC President and CEO Daniel J. Messina.

“Investing in opioid treatment funding is not just a commitment to health care but a pledge to the well-being of our community. As one of the hardest-hit areas, Staten Island faces profound challenges related to addiction and recovery. By investing in comprehensive treatment solutions, we foster long-term resilience and recovery, driving positive change where it is most needed. This grant is more than financial support; it is a beacon of hope for families affected by the opioid crisis. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo and all stakeholders for their dedication to healing and recovery,” said Meagan Sills, Deputy Executive Director at Staten Island University Hospital.

“The SI PPS is very grateful for Mayor Adams' allocation of over $12 million in Opioid Settlement Funds to Staten Island to fight the overdose crisis; it is the nation’s number one public health concern. This award would not have been possible without Assemblyman Pirozzolo's tireless advocacy on behalf of all Staten Islanders," stated Dr. Joseph Conte, Executive Director of SI PPS.

"The number of opioid overdose deaths per 100,000 on [Staten] island is about 170% higher than national rate... With this generous funding... [we aim] attacking... Substance Use Disorder problem... committed... working with all local health care... tackle epidemic root causes including mental health."