A Better Way – Opportunity Knocks Program concludes

The City of Norman's A Better Way - Opportunity Knocks (ABWOK) program concluded this month, largely due to funding limitations and priority shifting at the City of Norman.

ABWOK began in 2025 as a pilot program funded through opioid settlement funds. Following a review of program data and the City's priorities for these funds, the Norman City Council voted in December 2025 to direct funding toward other initiatives focused on treatment and recovery, prevention and education, criminal justice and public safety, and oversight and coordination.

As part of that decision, the City prioritized funding for two dedicated staff members who focus on homelessness issues and street outreach in the community. Review the presentation and City Council discussion on this topic, beginning at 49:20 here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X75gFWWNuZ0.

City staff later applied for an Opioid Abatement Grant in Spring 2026 in an effort to secure funding to continue ABWOK. The City was not awarded funding through that grant opportunity but plans to work with the Oklahoma Attorney General's Office to receive technical guidance and explore opportunities for a future application.

The conclusion of ABWOK does not reflect a reduction in the City's commitment to addressing homelessness, substance use and related community needs. The City will continue investing in programs and services that align with established opioid settlement funding regulations and community needs.

Learn more about ABWOK here.

###