$800K grant supports first responders

SANDUSKY — U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Toledo, recently announced an $800,000 federal grant, through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, for the Erie County Health Department. The award will support first responders across Erie County with skills and training as they respond to calls related to substance abuse or mental health disorders. "First responders are the first ones on the scene for a wide variety of emergencies, including to assist individuals experiencing mental health crises or substance abuse disorders," Kaptur said. "Our community has an ever-increasing need to improve the lives of our neighbors suffering from mental health disorders and substance abuse disorders," Kaptur added. "Federal support will allow northwest Ohio's brave and skilled first responders to better meet the needs of all people who are in need of their expert assistance." Pete Schade, the county's health commissioner, noted this marks the third time his agency received this award. "We are providing services with this funding that enable lives to be saved and souls to recover from the scourge of addiction," Schade said. "We are poised to provide the needed gaps in recovery that so many covet." Kaptur, a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, continues to secure federal funding for programs overseen by the health department. Throughout 2026, she's announced awards totaling about: • $1.8 million in funding for various services • $250,000 for the drug-free communities initaitive to encourage youth to live drug-free lives