In advance of the 2nd round of funding awards, Anderson County requested that the SMART Initiative conduct a needs assessment to make sure funding awards were going to the areas of greatest needs.
In September 2025, SMART presented this comprehensive substance misuse needs assessment to the Anderson County Opioid Abatement Board. Recommendations were presented to fill gaps in the continuum of care or to enhance currently funded strategies. When releasing their notice of funding opportunities, the board took those recommendations and included an emphasis on filling those identified needs.
In early March, they awarded their second round of grantees (16 applications) and are putting over $270,000 towards the continued strengthening of the local system to serve those individuals and families affected by opioid use disorder, including investment in primary prevention. By reducing barriers to care, Anderson County will continue to see positive results in reducing overdose and the negative consequences of substance use disorder.
To see other examples of county opioid settlement innovations and contact the UT SMART Initiative staff, please visit their website at smart.tennessee.edu.