White County Board of Commissioners have approved funding allocations aimed at addressing critical community needs, including substance abuse treatment, and support services.
During the April 21 meeting, the commissioners voted to appropriate funds to three key organizations: Seeds of Hope received $50,000, White County Schools was granted $3,600, and the Tennessee Community Services Agency was allocated $36,000.
Tina Lomax, representing Seeds of Hope, was present to speak with the board. She shared heartfelt testimony and letters from community members, emphasizing the vital role her organization plays in combating addiction and supporting those affected.
“We are making a difference with what we do, and my heart will always be for the people. I’ve never come here asking for money for my salary. It’s to serve the population,” Lomax concluded. “There are too many people suffering every day from addiction. This year alone, there have been seven funerals from opiate overdoses. It’s time it stops, and I pray this money will benefit those suffering through this crisis.”
The funding aims to bolster Seeds of Hope’s ongoing efforts to combat addiction and provide essential services to community members.
A representative from the Tennessee Community Services Agency also addressed the board, highlighting the importance of the funding for the White County Family Treatment Court. The agency administers grant funds for this court, which handles cases involving child abuse, neglect, and substance abuse. She explained that the $36,000 will be used to expand a current part-time position to a full-time role, allowing for more comprehensive support and intervention.
“The funds will also assist with fees and barriers that prevent participants from reaching their goals,” she explained. “We’re working to help families navigate DCS cases while providing mental health and substance abuse treatment, intensive case management, and judicial oversight to ensure child safety.”
The funds that the commission agreed to disperse are derived from opioid settlement lawsuits funneled through the Tennessee Abatement Council.
In addition to funding discussions, the commissioners approved a new reimbursement agreement with Cookeville Regional Medical Center. The hospital will now reimburse White County Emergency Medical Service for transportation costs when patients are transferred to other facilities should their insurance does not cover the ride.
The board also approved a lease agreement with Tennessee State Parks to rent office space inside the Chamber of Commerce building in the amount of $400 per month. They also made the decision to join Putnam County and the cities of Sparta and Cookeville in committing $120,000 to the Upper Cumberland Regional Airport to support future growth.
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