A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to evaluating the YMCA’s proposed “community as medicine” initiative, which seeks to integrate physical activity, nutrition, mindfulness, and peer support into a holistic approach for individuals in recovery. The program aims to provide continuous care beyond immediate treatment, addressing broader aspects of well-being. However, the proposal’s relevance to the board’s core mission was questioned. One board member expressed skepticism about including YMCA memberships within the grant’s scope.

The YMCA representative clarified that the program focuses on building community connections, which might not be covered in traditional medical case management. The program would involve a weekly commitment for participants, structured around four pillars—move, nourish, connect, and be—designed to offer deeper support than standard case management can provide. The funding request totaled approximately $76,000, intended as a one-time startup cost to establish the program, which is expected to become self-sustaining through billing over time. Despite this, board members expressed concerns about the potential financial strain on the limited opioid abatement budget, with one member cautioning against consuming too much of the available resources.

The board also deliberated on other funding requests, including a discussion about mobile clinics. A proposal was presented for two mobile clinic units costing $541,660, aimed at addressing challenges faced by the homeless population, such as lack of safe spaces for treatment. The need for these clinics was linked to increased patient engagement, with the current use of a single dedicated vehicle and a borrowed EMS vehicle raising questions about the necessity and efficacy of expanding this service.

In addition, Health and Hope requested $260,000, with a recommendation for $227,500, to enhance Narcan distribution and mobile outreach. Although the organization emphasized the preventive nature of its work, board members sought clearer connections between their services and the board’s opioid abatement mission. Similarly, Stephanie Shepard of Hope Above Fear outlined a diversion program in collaboration with the local school district. Her personal commitment, driven by her son’s struggle with opioid addiction, resonated with board members, who appreciated her efforts to prevent similar tragedies.

Further discussions focused on the Re-entry Alliance Pensacola’s (REAp) proposal for transitional housing facilities. Concerns were raised about the alignment with the board’s objectives and whether program participants would face charges for housing. The board stressed the importance of ensuring that transitional support does not become a financial burden for individuals in recovery. The REAp program sought $25,680 to cover costs for rent, utilities, and water, intended for participants receiving services. However, board members called for more detailed job descriptions and clarity on the program’s financial structure.