The Ocean County Opioid Advisory Council (OCOAC) is a county-based planning, advisory and coordinating council dedicated to supporting the community by providing guidance and recommendations to Ocean County and its municipalities on the responsible use of opioid settlement funds.
The Council was established under a 2022 agreement between the State of New Jersey and local governments regarding Opioid Litigation Recoveries. This agreement outlines how funds from national opioid litigation and bankruptcy settlements are distributed and used. The OCOAC reports directly to the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.
Mission & Goals
The Council’s primary mission is to strengthen services for individuals affected by Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD). It works collaboratively with community-based organizations and government agencies at the county, state, and federal levels to ensure a coordinated and effective response.
Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, the OCOAC identifies priority needs and helps ensure that residents have access to critical prevention, treatment, and recovery support services. Ocean County’s network of agencies and organizations remains committed to delivering comprehensive programs and resources, with a focus on supporting vulnerable populations.
Accessing Substance Use Disorder Services
ReachNJ is a central call-in line for New Jersey residents who are looking for help with a substance use disorder (SUD). Each call to ReachNJ is answered by a live, trained staff to provide referrals to supportive services and a seamless connection to a local treatment provider. ReachNJ serves NJ residents of all ages regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Call 1-844-732-2465
The Rutgers UBHC IME Addictions Access Center is another method to access treatment for substance use disorder (SUD). IME Addictions Access Center staff will assist callers to find the right provider for their needs and help them navigate the substance abuse treatment network. Call 1-844-276-2777
Ocean County residents without health insurance seeking Substance Use Disorder (SUD) services can contact the Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) at 732-341-9700, ext. 7538
To access services for children and youth, contact PerformCare’s 24-hour, toll-free hotline at 1-877-652-7624 or visit www.performcarenj.org
Get Involved
The Council meetings are open to the public. Council meetings take place at 10:00am on the fourth Thursday four times a year (once every three months). Individuals and family members with lived experience are strongly encouraged to participate. Your feedback, perspectives, and involvement are valued and essential to advancing the Council’s mission and goals. Please contact Human Services to be added to the e-mailing list for meeting notices and other important announcements.
Open funding opportunities through the Ocean County Opioid Advisory Council are posted on the County’s OpenGov Bid Portal.
View Program Monitoring Reports Here
View the Ocean County 2025 Opioid Abatement Report Here
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