Missoula County announced on Apr. 2 that it is accepting grant applications for the Substance Abuse Prevention Mill Levy and Community Assistance Fund, with a deadline of 11:59 p.m. on Friday, May 8. Funding will be available for fiscal year 2027, which runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.
The funding opportunities aim to support local government and nonprofit organizations working to prevent substance abuse and address basic human needs among at-risk populations in Missoula County. The Substance Abuse Prevention Mill Levy (SAP ML), approved by voters in 2008, offers $384,539 for programs focused on healthy youth development and reducing the negative impacts of underage substance use.
Previous recipients of SAP ML grants include Missoula Public Health, All Nations Health Center, Western Montana Mental Health Center, Boys and Girls Club, Empower MT, Friends of the Children and Mountain Home Montana. Applicants must show how their strategies align with proven programs such as coordinated coalitions against substance abuse, community education about drug risks and costs, supervised non-school hour activities offering alternatives to drug use for youth, or early intervention services.
The Community Assistance Fund (CAF) provides approximately $895,000 in total funding to projects that deliver food security initiatives, shelter services, medical care or emergency transportation to those most at risk. The CAF traces its origins back to an act by the Montana Legislative Assembly in 1877 that directed counties to assist sick or poor residents using special tax funds—a tradition that continues through decisions made by county commissioners today.
A pre-application workshop will be held via Microsoft Teams on Wednesday April 8 at 1 p.m., offering guidance for interested agencies. More information about both funding streams can be found online or by contacting Missoula County directly.
Missoula County enriches local culture by hosting community events at the fairgrounds and supporting educational programs according to the official website. The county also manages the Rocky Mountain Gardens and Exploration Center as a hub for learning and supports book awards through its public library according to the official website. Three elected commissioners oversee budgets and policy decisions according to the official website while also promoting safe outdoor burning practices each March according to the official website.
Additionally,the county delivers educational initiatives in ecology, gardening programs supporting residents and agricultural producers; it funds park improvements; promotes public safety; facilitates events boosting engagement; all aimed at enhancing quality of life.
