Nearly half a billion dollars spent over two-year initiative
Last week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services dispersed its second year of funding to all 50 U.S. states, four territories, plus Palau and Micronesia in efforts to combat the ongoing opioid crisis.
Over this two-year project, the department has spent nearly $500 million to aid in the nationwide initiative to curb problematic usage of opioids.
“The Trump Administration is partnering with states and territories to accelerate the deployment of this historic level of resources provided by the Congress to fight the epidemic,” said HHS Secretary Alex Azar. “These funds will help support evidence-based efforts at the state level to prevent misuse of opioids in the first place, expand access to effective treatment options for people in need, and support recovery for those who have prevailed.”
In the first year of the project, states utilized the funding to connect opioid users with evidence-based programs and practices proven to curb or stop usage of the drugs.
Within the next few months, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) will release details of a separate $1 billion grant funding opportunity for states, territories, and tribes hardest hit by the crisis. This new funding is expected to be awarded in September 2018.
SOURCE: HHS
