Grants Dashboard

South Dakota's State Opioid Response will expand upon infrastructure and capacity built through the State Targeted Response and Opioid Response efforts to date in support of increased access to medications for opioid use disorder, life-saving naloxone distribution, telehealth access to care, prevention service delivery, and expanded access to recovery support services. As the Single State Authority, the South Dakota Department of Social Services, Division of Behavioral Health, will lead the project in collaboration with ongoing efforts with the South Dakota Department of Health (through Centers for Disease Control Data-Driven Prevention Initiative funding focused on prescription drug overdose), and community providers to identify, leverage, and enhance community-based resources in the areas of prevention, treatment, recovery, and peer support services. More than 3,000 individuals are anticipated to be provided direct treatment or recovery support services, and an additional 2,250 individuals will be provided direct prevention services throughout the grant period.

The goals of the New Jersey Department of Human Services' Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services' (DMHAS) New Jersey State Opioid Response (NJ-SOR) project is to: 1) Increase access to FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD); 2) Support the continuum of prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery support services for opioid use disorder (OUD) and concurrent substance use disorders (SUDs); 3) Support the continuum of care for stimulant misuse and use disorders; 4) Reduce unmet treatment need; and 5) Reduce opioid-related overdose deaths. DMHAS will continue to fund a variety of programs that were initiated under the previous SOR grants and implement new services to meet these goals. The community of focus for the NJ SOR project are individuals with, or at risk for, opioid use and/or stimulant use disorder throughout the state. DMHAS is targeting the entire state based on its needs assessment. Virtually every indicator, from drug arrests to overdoses to treatment figures, show that the opioid crisis has a firm grip on NJ. NJ-SOR services include the Expanded Hours/Same Day Service Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) that provide same-day access to low barrier /on demand MOUD, the Mobile MOUD program that facilitates low induction medication in communities with low access to MOUD and high rates of homelessness, and the Low Threshold Buprenorphine Induction initiative that implements ""low threshold"" buprenorphine induction and stabilization programs at statewide harm reduction centers. Additionally, a program will continue to be funded to enhance overall recovery in stimulant use disorders utilizing contingency management. Training opportunities will continue for OUD treatment professionals and recovery service workers and a new training initiative for school staff in substance misuse prevention will be implemented. Prevention efforts will continue to include free naloxone kits that may be accessed through a portal developed for use by community groups, and through a network of pharmacies for distribution through the Naloxone 365 Pharmacy program. The Opioid Overdose Recovery Program and Public Education for Older Adults prevention programs will also be continued. Recovery activities include the continuation of the Community Peer Recovery and Family Support Centers; and the Support Team for Addiction Recovery and the Nurse Care Manager initiatives that provide case management and support services for individuals with an OUD. SOR will provide additional support for the three Recovery High Schools in NJ and fund a transportation reimbursement program for individuals to access services. New programming that will be funded by SOR include an integrated care program to promote the integration and co-location of physical and behavioral health care to improve wellness and physical health and a harm reduction initiative that will include education and supplies distribution. SOR will also fund new public information campaigns to reduce stigma surrounding SUD diagnoses and treatment and strategic messaging on consequences of opioid and stimulant misuse and counterfeit fentanyl pills targeted to youth and new prevention programs targeted to schools. Anticipated outcomes of the NJ-SOR include: reduction/abstinence from drugs and alcohol, increase in employment, reduced criminal justice involvement, increased social connectedness, and increased percentage of individuals completing treatment at the recommended level of care. Additional outcomes include: reducing opioid overdoses, increasing retention in treatment, reducing the length of time to relapse and prolonging recovery, and increasing number of individuals receiving MOUD. It is estimated that NJ-SOR will serve 201,347 individuals during the first year and 599,393 individuals over the three-year project.

Montana SOR IV Project Abstract The Montana State Opioid Response (SOR IV) Project will support the implementation of evidence-based prevention, treatment and recovery strategies for individuals with Opioid and/or Stimulant Use Disorders in Montana (OUD and SUD), with an emphasis on developing a statewide Opioid Education and Naloxone Education Program, expanding Contingency Management services, and providing MOUD services to vulnerable populations, including AI/AN, rural communities, and the criminal justice system. American Indians are Montana’s largest racial minority and face a more than 20-year disparity in life expectancy compared to white Montanans, partially attributable to higher rates of substance use. Justice system involvement for individuals with OUD and SUD is on the rise in Montana with an estimated 90% of the individuals in Montana jails being held for substance abuse related offenses. Key strategies funded under this application include the development of a mobile MOUD unit, comprehensive support for Contingency Management services, recovery residences, and providing technical assistance and training related to DATA Waivers, implementing MOUD services, naloxone use, and how to successfully refer individuals to treatment. The goals and objectives for the Montana SOR IV project include: Goal 1: Increase access to evidence-based treatment for underserved populations with OUD and StUD in Montana. • Objective 1.1: By 9/29/25, 100 Montanans will receive OUD services from mobile MOUD unit. • Objective 1.2: By 9/29/25, 50 non-insured or under insured Montanans with StUD and OUD will receive evidence-based treatment services including Contingency Management (CM) services. • Objective 1.3: By 9/29/25, 200 Montanans will receive MOUD/OUD therapeutic services/Medicated StUD/StUD therapeutic services in rural, tribal and urban settings. Goal 2: Increase access to evidence-based prevention services for OUD and SUD in Montana. • Objective 2.1: By 9/29/25, 30,000 naloxone kits will be distributed to key partners. • Objective 2.2: By 9/29/25, MT’s 56 counties and 7 reservations will have 1 Master Trainer. • Objective 2.3: By 9/29/25, six regional Opioid Education and Naloxone Distribution Programs (OENDPs) will be established to provide evidence-based community prevention and education. Each OENDP will educate 100 regional community members, including people in detention centers on opioid and stimulant misuse, opioid overdose education and distribute 2,000 kits of naloxone. Goal 3: Increase access to evidence-based recovery services for OUD and StUD in Montana. • Objective 3.1: By 9/29/25, 200 Montanans will be housed in certified recovery residences, including Recovery Residence of Montana (RRAM) and National Alliance for Recovery Residence (NARR) certifications. • Objective 3.2: By 9/29/26, 100 Montanans will work with a Certified PEER Support Specialist in a certified recovery residence, including Recovery Residence of Montana (RRAM) and National Alliance for Recovery Residence (NARR) certifications. • Objective 3.3: By 9/29/26, 100 Montanans will be receiving support with furthering education or employment training in participation with the certified recovery residences, including Recovery Residence of Montana (RRAM) and National Alliance for Recovery Residence (NARR) certifications they live. We plan to serve 1650 unduplicated individuals within the GPRA Target and 90000 within prevention services throughout its three-year cycle.

The Maryland State Opioid Response IV initiative is designed to take a strategic and targeted approach to increasing access to and enhancing the reach and capacity of prevention, treatment and recovery support services for individuals with an Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and/or a Stimulant Use Disorder. This initiative will intentionally target regions and populations with the greatest risk and need for OUD and stimulant use disorder services by reducing gaps in the SUD/OUD continuum of services throughout the state of Maryland. The Maryland SOR IV program aims to serve a total of 888,900 (YR 1: 286,224; YR 2: 301,118; YR 3: 301,558) individuals through prevention, treatment, and recovery services by the end of the project. Aligned with SAMHSA funding priorities, the Maryland SOR IV Initiative aims to achieve the following goals and objectives: Goal 1. Reduce opioid-related overdose deaths by providing access to Medication For Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) and other Evidence Based Treatment and Recovery Services specifically targeting high risk populations and communities. Objective 1. Individuals enrolled in SOR funded treatment and recovery services with an OUD will be linked to, and receive MOUD treatment. Objective 2. SOR recipients will receive one or more opioid or stimulant use evidence-informed treatment, recovery, or harm reduction interventions. Objective 3. Increase the percentage of individuals who receive SOR-funded treatment and recovery services who are from identified high-risk populations or communities. Objective 4. Individuals who receive SOR treatment and recovery services will exhibit improvement in substance and well being related outcomes. Goal 2. Reduce harm caused by the opioid epidemic by expanding the reach and strategically targeting opioid-stimulant related primary prevention, harm reduction, and public awareness efforts. Objective 1. Increase the number of Naloxone doses and training with a focus on target distribution to high risk and under-resourced communities Objective 2. Increase the number of local harm reduction organizations operating in high-risk communities. Objective 3. Increase the number of individuals who access evidence-informed, low-barrier harm reduction services. Objective 4. Increase the number of public awareness campaigns related to the dangers of opioid and stimulant misuse, and the availability of prevention, treatment, and recovery services across Maryland. Goal 3. Increase awareness and adoption of trauma-informed (TI) and healing-centered principles and practices. Objective 1. SOR-funded programs will be trained on and administer the TIOA Objective 2. SOR-funded organizations will develop a Trauma Informed Action Plan. Objective 3. SOR-funded partner organizations will demonstrate improvement in the adoption and implementation of Trauma Informed and Healing Centered practices. Goal 4. Enhance SOR data collection, analysis and use of data to inform system and program planning, implementation, and the targeting of resources. Objective 1. Develop and distribute at least four data-focused tools to inform program planning and continuous improvement efforts. Objective 2. SOR treatment and recovery providers will either meet GPRA enrollment and follow-up interview targets of 80 percent or demonstrate improvement in meeting data collection targets. Objective 3. Establish a Learning Community program for SOR partners and funded organizations.

The State of Indiana seeks to apply for State Opioid Response grant funding to address the substance use crises affecting many Hoosiers statewide. Since the beginning of Governor Eric Holcomb’s administration in 2017, he has called for an “all hands-on deck” approach to the growing drug crisis in Indiana. The Holcomb administration has made addressing the drug crisis one of the pillars of his Next Level Agenda . The population of focus for the State Opioid Response 4 (SOR 4) grant includes individuals across the lifespan who are 1) At risk for developing Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) or Stimulant Use Disorder (StUD), 2) At risk of overdose injury or death due to opioid or stimulant use, and 3) In need of treatment and recovery resources for OUD and StUD. Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) data for the SOR 2 and 3 grants included 3,520 individuals with an Opioid-related Diagnosis and 2,582 with a Stimulant or Cocaine Use Disorder reported at intake. Based on information gathered for the Needs Assessment, using the SAMHSA’s National Survey on Drug Use & Health (NSDUH) from 2021-2022, 13.26%, approximately 758,000, of Indiana’s population over the age of 12 are estimated to have used an illicit substance in the month prior to the survey. The same survey estimates 18.07%, approximately 1,032,000, of the surveyed population have experienced some type of substance use disorder in the past year. According to the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH), in 2022, there were 2,064 recorded overdose deaths in the State of Indiana. During the same timeframe, 18,285 naloxone events were reported across the State by first responders, as reported by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. In 2022, according to IDOH, there were 6,729 reported emergency department visits due to any type of opioid and 16,694 visits due to any drug. During the State Opioid Response 4 grant period, Indiana will address the ongoing opioid and stimulant crisis by 1) Focusing on the lack of fidelity monitoring for Indiana providers trained in and implementing evidence-based practices (EBP) for substance use disorders; 2) Increasing the number of addiction professionals within the State providing treatment and recovery services to those suffering from OUD and StUD; 3) Increasing access to evidence-based treatment and recovery resources to all people in Indiana with OUD or StUD; 4) Decreasing the total number of drug overdose deaths in State; and 5) Addressing the needs of underserved populations, including the aging population, throughout Indiana.

Our proposal seeks funding to implement a comprehensive naloxone distribution and saturation plan across the U.S. Virgin Islands. This plan will address the critical gaps identified in our needs assessment by expanding access to treatment, reducing barriers to care, and enhancing harm reduction services. With a targeted approach focusing on high-risk populations and underserved communities, this initiative aims to significantly reduce overdose mortality and improve public health outcomes in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The Utah State Opioid Response (UT SOR4) Grant, administered by the Office of Substance Use and Mental Health (SUMH) identifies youth ages 12-17 and adults ages 18 years and older, who have a current, or are at risk for, an opioid use disorder (OUD) or stimulant use disorder (SUD). At-risk populations including tribal populations, and uninsured/underinsured persons as the populations of focus. Priority populations will include individuals who are pregnant, individuals who use drugs intravenously, and individuals with HIV and/or Hepatitis C (HCV). There will be UT SOR4 projects implemented and continued throughout the state. The estimated number of people to be served as a result of the award of this grant is 1,000 per grant year. Strategies and Interventions- Prevention and harm reduction; Improve capacity and structure; Increase access to quality care and services; Improve health outcomes. Project Goals and Measurable Objectives- Goal 1: Prevent and reduce opioid and stimulant use among youth, adults, and at-risk populations. Goal 2: Expand knowledge and connection of harm reduction strategies within systems to enhance service access and reduce the incidence of co-occurring diseases and mortality rates within the community. Goal 3: Expand access and usage of FDA-approved medications for the treatment of OUD. Goal 4: Expand the network of systems engaged in physical and behavioral health services that support individuals with OUD and/or stimulant use disorder to ensure a fully integrated approach. Goal 5: Promote health, recovery-oriented service systems and peer support for individuals and families in recovery from opioid or stimulant use disorders.

Mississippi's SSA, The State Department of Mental Health, Bureau of Behavioral Health (DMH) has been charged with the implementation of the State's Opioid and Stimulant Use Disorder Services (OSUD). DMH has nearly fifty years of experience in addressing the State's Mental and Substance Use needs. MS's population, estimated at 2,939,690 in 2022 (US Census Bureau 2023), is projected to increase annually by an average of 1% over the next 30 years. Approximately 23% of the MS population is under 18 years old and 17% are age 65 or older; 56% of MS’s population is non-Hispanic white, and 38% is African American. The latter is the highest proportion of any state. Increasingly, African Americans in MS are hospitalized with opioid-related diagnoses. Fifty-one percent of the state are female and 3.5% of the state’s population are LGBT (UCLA School of Law Williams Institute, n.d.). MS has a federally recognized tribe, i.e., 12,990 members of the MS Band of Choctaw Indians. MS is ranked seventh in prescribing rates for opioids, with 76.8 prescriptions per 100 persons. The number of buprenorphine prescriptions increased by 58% between 2012. MS has seen significant increases in extremely potent high-MME (morphine milligram equivalent) prescriptions (mostly oxycodone). Prescription duration (days’ supply) is also unusually high. This combination has created serious overdose risks for MS residents. There were 10.9 opioid-related overdose deaths per 100,000 persons reported to the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics (MBN) in 2020. Drug overdoses in MS increased by 133% between 2011 and 2018. Also, coroner’s report drug poisoning deaths rising from 256 in 2017 to 342 in 2018 and MS Poison Control fielded over 304 opioid-related calls and 268 amphetamine-related calls. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) data revealed that naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication, was administered 2,540 times during 2021, which is 52.5% since 2019 at (1,334). Ranked atop nearly every negative US social indicator, MS is often aptly compared to less developed nations. MS has the lowest ranking of any state on the Human Development (HD) Index (0.866), a numerical measure of health, education, and income. MS’s current HD score is behind that of the US in the late 1980s. MS has the lowest life expectancy of any state, the highest rate of adults 25 or older who have not completed high school or earned a high school equivalency degree, and among the lowest average per capita income ($23,121 vs. $32,397 for the US). An estimated 20% of the state’s population and 30% of its children live in poverty and 15.4 % of the population do not have insurance. Poverty is racialized in MS, with 46% of African American MS children in poverty vs. 15% white. Despite the vast gaps in services, MS will continue to build on the MS STR, SOR I, II, and III Grants, to continue the fight against the disparities that hinder our communities, workforce, and service system. It is the intent of MS-SOR IV to sustain the efforts that have made positive impacts on the OSUD crisis in MS, while continuing to reduce gaps in treatment via a variety of MAT services. MS will continue to be innovative in overcoming service disparities through recovery housing, contingency management, treatment retention and a renewed TeleMAT.

The Kentucky Overdose Response Effort (KORE) supports the implementation of a comprehensive response to Kentucky's opioid and stimulant crisis by expanding access to evidence-based prevention, treatment, and recovery support services. Central to KORE’s approach is a behavioral health system infrastructure with the capacity to deliver high-quality, evidence-based interventions in a data-driven, equitable, and trauma-informed manner. Addressing the evolving and expanding epidemic is a top priority across all levels of government and community partners in Kentucky. Opioid and stimulant overdose remains one of the most critical public health and safety issues facing the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Although overdose deaths decreased by 9.8% from 2022 to 2023-a reduction that was three times the national average—1,984 Kentuckians died from a drug overdose, and most of these fatalities involved fentanyl (79%) and methamphetamine (55%). Informed by KORE’s Strategic Action Plan, populations of focus include individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) or stimulant use disorder (StimUD) who are 1) overdose survivors; 2) criminal-legal system-involved; 3) pregnant and postpartum; 4) Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC); and 5) transition-age youth. The goals of Kentucky’s State Opioid Response grant are to 1) prevent the development of OUD and StimUD by implementing evidence-based interventions that address behaviors that may lead to a use disorder or overdose; 2) reduce overdose fatalities and other negative impacts of opioid and stimulant use through expansion of harm reduction strategies and principles; 3) reduce OUD/StimUD, overdose, and related health consequences by increasing equitable availability and accessibility of evidence-based treatments that include the use of FDA-approved Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD); and 4) facilitate and sustain long-term recovery from OUD/StimUD by increasing access to support services that build recovery capital. Kentucky proposes to serve 104,000 individuals in Year 1, 154,000 in Year 2, and 154,000 in Year 3. Grant activities will be prioritized in catchment areas with high rates of opioid or stimulant overdose, which include Appalachian eastern KY, northern KY, central KY, and greater Jefferson County. Through the State Opioid Response grant, Kentucky will be better equipped to support the behavioral health needs of the Commonwealth and implement evidence-based interventions to end the opioid and stimulant epidemic.

The purpose of the Nebraska State Opioid Response (SOR) program (NE SOR TI-24-008) is to increase access to FDA-approved medications for the treatment of Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) and support prevention, risk reduction, treatment, and recovery services for OUD and other concurrent substance use disorders (SUD) including stimulant use and misuse. The Division of Behavioral Health (DBH) will partner with a diverse group of agencies throughout key community sectors to provide services to underserved and at-risk populations living in both rural and urban communities statewide. Nebraska's focus on treatment includes implementing clinically appropriate EBPs for OUD and stimulant use treatment by training 150 unduplicated providers by September 29, 2027 in the ECHO model, as well as providing MATE Act trainings. DBH aims to reach at-risk populations such as incarcerated individuals by partnering with Nebraska Department of Corrections to expand treatment services to correctional facilities. This initiative includes the implementation of a continuum of care system for individuals upon re-entry through naloxone access and housing coordination. Success in treatment activities will be measured by the number of unduplicated individuals receiving treatment services on an annual basis. The target for individuals served in Year 1 will be 120, with an increased goal for Year 2 and 3 of 140. SOR funding will also assist in providing recovery support services through supportive housing and re-entry coordination with an annual target of 300 unduplicated individuals served for each year of the grant. Through partnership with DBH, Nebraska's regional behavioral health authorities and community coalitions will coordinate efforts to implement primary and secondary prevention activities across the state, with a focus on opioid and stimulant education programs in school-based settings, specifically for transitional aged youth ages 16-24. Promotion of proper storage and disposal of medications will be achieved through the dissemination of medication lock boxes and drug disposal devices such as Deterra pouches and Med-Safe Inlays for pharmacies and hospitals. In addition, there will be a focus on community-wide drug take back events and information dissemination containing strategic messaging on opioid and stimulant use. DBH will increase awareness of the accessibility of naloxone and increase distribution throughout the state. By September 2027, DBH will distribute 58,845 naloxone kits to those who are able to assist in the event of an overdose. Success in prevention activities will be measured by the number of unduplicated individuals receiving prevention services on an annual basis. The target for unduplicated individuals receiving prevention services will be 66,000 for each year of the grant.

New Mexico (NM) will use SOR 4 funds to continue to address the opioid use disorder (OUD) crisis through implementation of evidence-based practices (EBPs) in prevention, treatment, recovery and harm reduction, including an innovative community defined evidence practice (CDEP) specific for tribal youth. Implementation model: NM SOR 4 will continue to expand its capacity to address OUD morbidity and mortality via the modified Hub and Spoke implementation model, called the Collaborative Hubs Model. This will support the adoption and implementation of EBPs statewide that have proven effectiveness to prevent, treat, support recovery and reduce harms related to OUD. Focal to the NM Collaborative Hubs implementation model is a strong diverse, multidisciplinary network of addictions experts (psychiatrists, family medicine, emergency medicine, toxicology, pharmacists, nurses, peer support supervisors and peer support workers, psychologists, etc.) that provide statewide training, implementation support and technical assistance across the entire workforce and in a wide range of treatment settings. This network includes the nationally recognized MOUD ECHO program and the NM Bridge hospital program. This includes education and support in English and Spanish for workforce in the use of psychosocial and therapeutic supports. It also includes focus on co-occurring physical, mental, and substance use disorders, special populations including youth, LGBTQ+, pregnant person, rural, Hispanic and Native American populations. Goals: SOR 4 will (1) Increase access to medications for OUD (MOUD) with added emphasis on youth in treatment, detention centers, and reentry populations. Expansion of telemedicine prescribing will be central to this effort. We will also expand low-barrier MOUD access in our state's public health offices, and increase access to intensive treatment and support for persons leaving emergency departments as well as those with high acuity in our Community Anchors triage centers; (2) Promote and support treatment that is comprehensive including FDA approved medications, therapy, psychosocial supports, and recovery; (3) Expand access to recovery services with a strong emphasis on recovery housing for persons in intensive outpatient treatment and placement/training of peers in various settings; (4) Expand access to prevention EBPs, as well as implementing a CDEP for tribal youth; (5) Expand harm reduction efforts by restructuring our naloxone distribution through use of regional hub centers and utilization of online reporting/ordering system and a heat map; (6) Ensure continuous quality improvement through quality data collection, reporting & evaluation. Additionally, NM SOR 4 will collaborate with NM's Tribal Opioid Response partners to reduce duplication of efforts and help collaboratively address NMs OUD crisis. We will target our media campaign programs to focus on building awareness of our expanded services, including youth-focused (16-25 years) treatment messaging. The GPRA tool will be collected on all individuals receiving treatment and recovery services with 350 persons annually engaging in treatment and recovery services who will complete the GPRA. We will reach 1050 persons over the life of the 3-year SOR 4 grant. Prevention numbers served include naloxone and direct prevention activities and will reach 45,000 persons per year for a total of 135,000 people over the life of the SOR 4 grant program.

IDHS/SUPR is proposing a comprehensive spectrum of outreach and referral, Medication Assisted Recovery (MAR) and other evidence-based treatment resources, for supporting the continuum of prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery support services for opioid use disorder (OUD), stimulant use disorder, and other concurrent substance use disorders in Illinois. This application's population of focus is Illinois residents who are experiencing opioid use disorder (OUD) and/or stimulant use disorder (SUD) related problems. The statewide opioid overdose rate has increased from 17 per 100,000 in 2019 to 26 per 100,000 in 2022. Non-Hispanic Black individuals of any age are 3.5 times more likely to die from an opioid overdose than non-Hispanic White individuals of any age. The fatality rate of non-Hispanic Black individuals aged 45-54 and 65+ is 4.1 and 6.2 times higher than non-Hispanic White individuals of the same age, respectively. Co-occurring chronic health and mental health disorders will also be addressed. IDHS/SUPR will utilize SAMHSA funds primarily to support direct services. IDHS/SUPR will 1) Establish statewide administrative and infrastructure capabilities responsible for planning, coordinating, monitoring, and evaluation of Illinois SOR4 grant-supported prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery support services, strategies and activities; 2) Increase the availability of evidence-based, culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and evidence-informed outreach, prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery support services that are available for Illinois residents with opioid use disorders (OUD) and stimulant use disorders (SUD); ensure the use of recovery-oriented, and equity-centered principles in contracts and grants, and establish grants that ensure focus on populations experiencing the highest rates of overdose; and 3) Implement data collection and evaluation activities that will assist in documenting the implementation, achievements, and outcomes of the treatment, recovery support, harm reduction, and prevention activities supported through the SOR4 grant awarded to Illinois. Illinois’ State Overdose Action Plan (SOAP) serves as Illinois strategic plan. All SOR SUD treatment contracts and NOFOs address the range of issues required to ensure that the needs of diverse populations are being met, and that behavioral health equity is a prioritized strategic goal, as described in our SOAP. IDHS/SUPR will expand existing initiatives to further address the needs of underserved communities and populations, including BIPOC communities, LGBTIQI+ individuals, transitional age youth and older adults. IDHS/SUPR and the IDHS Division of Mental Health (DMH) are working closely on recovery and recovery support services. Throughout the course of the SOR4 grant, IDHS/SUPR will explore multiple options to sustain these funded services. IDHS/SUPR has already created a blended funding stream for the purchase of naloxone. IDHS/SUPR plans to evaluate, monitor and ensure fidelity of the evidence-based practices being implemented by our service providers. When deviations occur, retraining and technical assistance will be provided.

Palau SOR Project Phase 3 aims to build capacity for opioid use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery through strengthening evidence-based programs for addiction and mental illness.

Alaska Department of Health SOR IV Project Abstract Summary Alaska Department of Health (DOH) will use the SAMHSA State Opioid Response (SOR) IV funds to offer a comprehensive approach to prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery by supporting improved access to the continuum of care, enhancing the workforce to support this care, and integrating resources to serve those most vulnerable. The prevention initiatives aim to serve 6,100 people over the project period. Key components include sustaining the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) and Stay Safe Youth Campaign. The prevention efforts also encompass harm reduction activities, such as supporting syringe service programs and expanding Alaska's Opioid Education and Naloxone Distribution (OEND) program, Project HOPE. There are two goals that apply to prevention: ""Alaskans are supported in responsible prescribing and dispensing policies and practices,"" and “Alaskans experience reduced morbidity and mortality associated with opioid and stimulant use.” The first goal has the following objectives: Increase the number of prescribers registered with the PDMP by 20% by June 30, 2027; Decrease delinquent PDMP reporting by 50% by June 30, 2027; Expand the number of facilities integrated with the PDMP via Statewide Gateway Integration by 40% by June 30, 2027; and ensure that at least 85% of patient queries are conducted through integrated access by June 30, 2027. The second goal is: at least 30,000 doses of naloxone will be distributed by June 30, 2025 through Project HOPE with 10 percent of these doses specifically distributed through Alaska’s Reentry Program; at least 90,000 fentanyl and xylazine test strips will be distributed on a yearly basis beginning July 1st and ending June 30th through Project HOPE; at least 500 individuals at high risk of overdosing receive overdose and overdose death prevention education by September 29, 2025; and at least 500 individuals receiving services from syringe service programs will be supported with harm reduction intervention by June 30, 2025. The population served will include prescribers serving all age groups, ndividuals most at risk for overdose including those who inject drugs, and justice-involved individuals upon their reentry. The Alaska DOH aims to reach 1,195 individuals with treatment using SOR funding, focusing on expanding access to contingency management and medications for opioid use disorder. The goal is the following: Alaskans have timely access to the screening, referral and treatment services they need. The objectives within this goal are separated out by timely screening, referral, and treatment measurable objectives. The population served will include individuals 16 and older, women who are pregnant, and those eligible for DBH grantee approved services. DOH will continue supporting recovery residences, with a target of serving at least 242 people through this initiative. The goal is Alaskans build communities of recovery across the state. The objectives are: by September 27, 2024, at least seven recovery residences will have received certification from National Alliance of Recovery Residences (NARR); and by September 27, 2024, 300 individuals will have been able to reside in a recovery residence. The populations served are all genders, 18 and older who are in recovery from opioid and stimulant use disorders. Workforce development efforts will ensure that Alaskans can obtain certification in chemical dependency counseling. Additionally, the behavioral health workforce will stay current with the ASAM 4th edition and other evidence-based trainings. Peer support specialists will receive comprehensive training to effectively assist those struggling with substance use disorder.

The District of Columbia's Opioid Response 4 (DCOR 4) initiative will focus on addressing the overdose crisis, driven primarily by illicit fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, by increasing access to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), reducing unmet treatment needs, and reducing opioid overdose-related deaths through the provision of prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery support services (RSS) to individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) and other concurrent substance use disorders. Expanded services and supports will also be provided to individuals with stimulant use disorders (STUD). Through support from the first, second, and third State Opioid Response (SOR) grants (DCOR 1, 2, and 3), the District has increased access to MOUD, including in the DC Jail, and has expanded the array of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and RSS. The DCOR 4 will continue many of these initiatives but will also increase entry points into the system of care (e.g., mobile MOUD initiation, targeted/intensive outreach in shelters) and improve the coordination of care for individuals as they move through the system by expanding care management initiatives in the community and at the DC Jail. Additionally, peer support specialists will be used throughout the continuum of care to foster engagement and service connection. Training, technical assistance (TA), coaching, and consultation will be available to SUD providers/health care professionals to increase their ability to address an individual's whole person needs. In addition, the District will implement a coordinated approach at the community/neighborhood level by facilitating key stakeholders in each ward to work collaboratively around harm reduction, prevention, community outreach and education initiatives, and sustainability planning. The DCOR 4 initiative will be implemented in all eight Wards with particular focus on Wards 5, 7 and 8 (highest opioid fatalities). LIVE.LONG.DC, 3.0, the District of Columbia Strategic Plan to Reduce Opioid Use, Misuse, and Related Deaths will continue to be a guide for accomplishing the work. The specific goals of the grant are to 1) Educate District residents and stakeholders on opioid use disorder (OUD), its risks, and prevention and harm reduction approaches through coordinated community efforts; 2) Support the awareness, availability of, and access to, harm reduction services in the District of Columbia; 3) Implement a robust communications plan to disseminate knowledge of, and ensure equitable access to, high-quality, trauma-informed, recovery-oriented, equity-based SUD treatment; 4) Expand reach and impact of the highest quality RSS available and promote a recovery-oriented system of care; 5) Implement a shared vision between justice and public health agencies to address the needs of individuals who come into contact with the criminal justice system; 6) Strengthen the District of Columbia's opioid response by cultivating a skilled workforce, advancing professional development opportunities, and implementing strategic communication methodologies to drive meaningful change. The DCOR 4 initiative will serve 2,250 unduplicated individuals over the life of the grant (750 in each of the three years).

State Opioid Response (SOR) funding will enhance the Idaho's State Opioid Response (ISOR) program. ISOR will increase access to Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and stimulant use disorder services, including Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD), expand community recovery support services and reduce the number of opiate and stimulant related deaths in Idaho. Idaho intends to accomplish this by supporting the continuum of prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery support services for adults, young adults, and transitional aged youth, for OUD and other concurrent substance use disorders. Idaho’s 2024 SOR Needs Assessment identified the need to increase access to OUD and stimulant use disorder services, including MOUD, as the top gap/need. Idaho will continue to address this need by increasing access to OUD and stimulant use disorder services, including MOUD, through several methods. Idaho will continue to support access to community recovery support services to 500 individuals each year of the grant for a total of 1500 persons served. This will be achieved by providing recovery coach services within Idaho's recovery centers and continuing to fund support services through correctional reentry initiatives and warm handoff programs. The second need identified in Idaho's 2024 SOR Needs Assessment is the need to expand community recovery support services. To address this need, safe and sober educational community activities and awareness campaigns will be provided monthly in all Idaho's 7 regions through Idaho's recovery centers. Additionally, funding will be available to Idaho's 5 federally recognized tribes to support any prevention, harm reduction, treatment, or recovery support services needed within their communities. Idaho will increase access to recovery housing by providing safe and sober housing assistance to 3000 eligible individuals over the 3 years of the grant. The third need identified in Idaho’s 2024 SOR Needs Assessment is to reduce the number of opiate and stimulant related deaths. With a 7.93% increase in deaths related to opioid overdoses in Idaho between 2021 and 2022, reducing the number of opiate and stimulant related deaths is the overarching goal for the ISOR program. To address this need, the Division of Behavioral Health will partner with the Kootenai County Fire and Rescue (KCFR) to distribute a total of 90,000 naloxone kits over the 3 years of the grant. To support the use of naloxone, KCFR will also distribute 1,200 naloxone educational materials and train at least 100 individuals on the use of naloxone each year. Additionally, harm reduction services will be supported through ISOR funding by increasing access to Fentanyl/HIV/HEP C testing and providing referrals to treatment services within 8 community treatment and/or recovery support agencies by the end of the grant. Due to the repeal of Idaho’s Safe Syringe Exchange Act effective July 2024, ISOR funds will not be used to support needle exchange activities. To address our youngest population, providers will assist schools and communities with evidence-based tools and activities, prevention and education programming will be implemented or expanded in at least 3 schools over 3 years.

The Wyoming State Opioid Response (SOR) project aims to enhance access to Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) treatment, focusing on coordinated care, recovery support services, and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), to reduce OUD prevalence and related fatalities. The project's goals and objectives are data-driven, culturally sensitive, and designed to foster a community of health across all populations. Our approach includes developing and supporting local prevention collaborations, improving treatment and recovery services, and backing current harm reduction initiatives to implement best practices for addressing the full continuum of care for opioid misuse, abuse, and dependency. Key activities of the Wyoming SOR project include: Promoting and expanding naloxone distribution. Addressing the needs of justice-involved populations through increased access to services and supports. Expanding access to medication-assisted treatment and other opioid use disorder treatment supports and stimulant use disorder services. Enhancing access to recovery support services. Providing targeted support for transitional-aged youth to ensure seamless access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services.

Ohio's State Opioid and Stimulant Response Grant (SOS) investments are demonstrating impressive empirically validated results in all GPRA client outcome areas. SOS 4.0 will continue to align state level efforts to flatten Ohio's death rate from opioid and drug poisoning, increase access to harm reduction, focus on peer recovery supports, expand evidence-based practices, and increase upstream strategies to 35,000 Ohio youth and adults that promote behavioral wellness. OhioMHAS first CURES/SOR investments introduced MAT, MOUD and OTPs into Ohio’s treatment landscape. The second round of SOR funding focused on developing an integrated system of care with the understanding that treating opioid use disorder is complex, requiring a multi-level systems approach with behavioral health care coordination. Following these foundational efforts, Ohio’s third round of SOS funding along with other community investments, allowed Ohio to implement a laser focused data driven approach to ensuring immediate access to life saving drug reversal medications and drug testing tools. Layered with implementing an Opioid Treatment Indicator - the ""OARRS"" reporting system, Ohio’s SOS 4.0 efforts will continue to apply targeted harm reduction efforts, increase access to evidence based treatments including MOUD, with a focus on youth and older adults, refine innovative drug poisoning awareness campaigns, and substantially increase peer services in all communities to improve access to a full range of recovery supports for Ohio’s highest risk, vulnerable, rural and urban communities. To inform Ohio’s 4.0 program goals, OhioMHAS conducted listening sessions with nearly 400 partners with unique individual, family, and system experiences across Ohio’s diverse communities in the grips of the opioid and drug crisis. This rich, real-time, qualitative data in conjunction with Ohio’s retrospective SOR GPRA and the SOR-TOR Program Instrument outcomes have elevated a set of core strategies that are working to flatten Ohio’s death rates from opioid and other drug poisoning. Topping the list demonstrating impressive results for Ohio’s SOS 4.0 plan is elevating Harm Reduction, Prevention and Early Intervention approaches. Ohio’s central SOS 4.0 goal in state agency and regional provider collaboration is to scale evidence-based prevention and harm reduction infrastructure efforts. Working in close partnership the Ohio Department of Health’s 180 Project DAWN (Deaths Avoided with Naloxone) programs, future SOS 4.0 resources will help maintain operations of nearly 800 distribution sites that have effectively reversed 30, 955 drug overdoses. Ohio will expand system collaborative efforts that launched data informed deployment of law enforcement drug interdiction efforts and increased ""boots on the ground"" trauma trained Critical Incident Teams (CIT) guided by a predictive algorithm at the zip code level to target real time first responder resources. Treatment and Recovery has been vastly improved through access to certified peer navigators, and the use of mobile apps, providing immediate in-person and online treatment and recovery supports. For many Ohioans engaging in services using personal devices, web-based technology has removed barriers to treatment and recovery communities. Trusted community organizations delivered effective peer outreach and targeted messaging such as “One Pill Can Kill Campaign” in minority and rural communities to raise awareness regarding the real dangers of illicit and prescription drug use. Analytics from these efforts will inform the next round of SOS 4.0 targeted messaging.

In 2019, Vermont experienced its first statistically significant decline in opioid related deaths, decreasing by 15% (111 deaths) from 2018 (130 deaths). This progress was stifled by the arrival of the COVID-19 infection in the United States. Preliminary 2023 opioid-related accidental and undetermined fatal overdose data show a decrease in opioid-related fatal overdoses, with a 5% decrease from 244 deaths in 2022 to 231 in 2023. While these preliminary results are distressing, it demonstrates a profound need to continue our comprehensive public health approach. The State Opioid Response (SOR) grant proposes to help Vermonters access treatment and move from treatment to successful recovery through strengthened prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Populations of focus are: 1) individuals who need, but are not actively seeking, opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment; 2) individuals awaiting administration of Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD); and 3) individuals who may be at increased risk for opioid overdose, including those using both cocaine and opioids. We plan to implement a set of SOR year four activities that utilize enhanced and mutually reinforcing initiatives implemented through existing prevention, treatment, and recovery systems. The Vermont Department of Health (VDH), Division of Substance Use Programs (DSU) has prioritized the following three goals: Goal One: increase access to OUD and stimulant use disorder treatment, including MOUD. Supported activities: VT Helplink call center information, support, harm reduction resources, and referral services; opioid treatment program implementation; contingency management technical assistance; marketing of available services; adolescent and family screening, engagement, and recovery services. Goal Two: increase regional capacity to implement community-specific opioid strategies. Supported activities: education and referral services for New Americans at risk of OUD; enhanced recovery supports such as specialized recovery coaching for parents, and recovery coaches embedded in fourteen (14) regional hospital emergency departments. Goal Three: decrease opioid related deaths. In addition to the interventions already described, activities include: expand information provided on the recent addition of a page on VT Helplink dedicated to substance misuse prevention, providing resources on: prescription medications disposal; safe use of prescription opioids; community prevention programs; family dedicated resources; overdose prevention and how to obtain and administer naloxone; and additional resources on COVID-19 guidance in the event of outbreaks in residential facilities and alternative treatment and recovery services if you become infectious while seeking care.

The South Carolina State Opioid Response Project (SC SOR Project) aims to address the opioid and stimulant use disorder crisis through comprehensive prevention, treatment, harm reduction and recovery support services statewide. This initiative will leverage community partnerships and evidence-based strategies to reduce substance use and improve public health outcomes across South Carolina. Populations to be Served: The SC SOR Project will address individuals with opioid and stimulant use disorders, focusing on – but not limited to – high-risk populations, including low-income, rural, and minority communities. Target demographics will include a diverse age range, with a particular emphasis on young adults and middle-aged individuals. Clinical characteristics will involve a spectrum of substance use severity, co-occurring mental health conditions, and individuals with a history of overdose. Strategies/Interventions: • Prevention: Statewide educational campaigns, community outreach, and community-based programs to raise awareness of misuse and to prevent the onset of substance use. Educational campaigns on the dangers of drugs, overdose prevention, and the availability of harm reduction services. • Treatment: Expansion of access to medication-assisted treatment, behavioral therapies, and integrated care models. • Recovery Support: Development and sustainability of peer support networks, recovery housing linkage, and vocational training to sustain long-term recovery. Development and support of peer-led initiatives where individuals with lived experience provide support, education, and advocacy. • Harm Reduction: Wide distribution of naloxone to at-risk individuals, their families, and community members, as well as training on how to use naloxone effectively in emergency situations. Distribution of fentanyl and xylazine test strips, and education on how to use the strips to prevent overdose. Goals/Objectives: The application proposes a comprehensive response to the opioid and stimulant epidemic by: • monitoring programs through site visits and data collection and conducting a thorough evaluation that will be the basis for strategic and sustainability plans; • addressing stigma and the need for action through statewide multimedia campaigns; • expanding and enhancing the state’s Opioid Overdose Prevention Program through a targeted saturation plan to save the lives of South Carolinians; • providing financial assistance to indigent South Carolinians for medications; • implementing and monitoring clinically appropriate, evidence-based practices for opioid and stimulant use disorders; and • providing assistance to individuals returning to their communities from criminal justice settings. The number of residents to be served annually is 5,288,834, and for the entire project the targeted goal is to reach a total of 15,866,502 South Carolinians.

The purpose of the Missouri State Opioid Response 4.0 (SOR 4.0) project is to build upon the system changes for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction that have been activated by Missouri’s State Targeted Response (STR) and State Opioid Response grants while expanding focus on stimulant use and adding critical initiatives to address overdose disparities across the state. Upstream prevention approaches targeting substance misuse in high-risk youth and young adults will be key grant components. Overdose prevention and response strategies and expanded harm reduction resources will be increased across the state through expanded peer outreach, communitybased street outreach programs, and partnership with infectious disease programs in high need communities. Through the continued and honed implementation of Missouri’s ‘Medication First’ treatment approach for OUD as well as Contingency Management for stimulant use, we aim to increase access to evidence-based treatment and improve transitions of care. By continuing promotion of peerled recovery training, we aim to better prepare individuals with lived experience to deliver valuable clinical support services. To enhance the sustainability of project accomplishments, administration and evaluation teams will strengthen existing collaborations, help enact key system sustainability changes, and demonstrate the effectiveness of protocols implemented through the award. Missouri’s primary focus will be increasing access to treatment for OUD and providing evidence-based services to individuals with presenting for care within state-funded programs, hospitals, and community-led organizations. Primary prevention activities will center on increased awareness of prescription drug misuse and healthy coping skills, led by the Boys & Girls Club of America, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and local agencies in high-risk areas. Overdose prevention and naloxone training efforts will target active drug users and homeless individuals through street outreach programming and training social services staff. Harm Reduction services will be expanded to include partnerships with organizations across the state for outreach, education, and resources. Additionally, Fentanyl Test Strip (FTS) distribution will provide harm reduction tools for people who use drugs, especially stimulant users. Partnerships between peer-outreach programming and community-based organizations will provide new access points for engagement in treatment and recovery services. Holistic recovery support services will be provided through Recovery Community Centers, Peer Respite Crisis Stabilization Program and Recovery Support Services, particularly housing, employment assistance, and family support, delivered with a focus on peer engagement and medication-friendly principles. The State of Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) will lead the project, with administration, implementation, and evaluation activities performed by the University of Missouri, St. Louis (UMSL) Missouri Institute of Mental Health (MIMH). Missouri’s SOR 4.0 project will further transform the system of care for OUD by implementing evidence-based protocols demonstrated to save lives, offering extensive multimodal professional training and consultation, and delivering effective and compassionate services to individuals across healthcare settings throughout the state

One in four Texans has experienced an opioid overdose or knows someone who has. The Texas Targeted Opioid Response (TTOR) is a public health initiative with a mission to save lives and provide life-long support to Texans with opioid and stimulant use disorders by expanding access to prevention, integrated, treatment, and recovery support services. TTOR projects will serve 38,337 people in year one and 111,295 people over its three-year grant life. TTOR projects serve the entire state with particular focus on three groups at increased risk for opioid use disorder (OUD), harmful stimulant use and resulting consequences: 1) people using multiple substances, 2) people living in rural/remote areas, and 3) people with historically low access to services. Prevention programming connects communities to resources throughout Texas, raising awareness about opioid misuse, distributing the life-saving overdose reversal drug naloxone, and stopping substance use disorder before it starts. Integrated projects work with organizations that provide rapid, short-term services to people with OUD and then arrange longer-term care through other, more specialized options. Treatment expands the capacity of physicians and clinics across Texas to offer evidence-based treatment to support people with opioid and stimulant use disorders. Recovery increases the availability and effectiveness of support services for people in long-term recovery by expanding access to housing, employment, and peer support services. By September 2027, TTOR programs will: Reduce the number of Texans, 12 years and older, reporting opioid misuse in the past year by 10,000 on the 2024-2025 NSDUH report. Increase the number of people who enter medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) through non-traditional settings from integrated projects by 20 percent. Maintain rate of 73 percent of people receiving state-funded treatment for OUD who receive MOUD. Retain an estimated 1,000 people in recovery when they receive long-term recovery support services at three years post-treatment, compared to receiving treatment alone. Increase the number of reported lives saved from overdose by 30 percent over the annual total reported for 2024.

The purpose of North Dakota's State Opioid Response (SOR) grant is to address the opioid overdose crisis by increasing access to FDA-approved medications for the treatment of opioid use disorder (MOUD), and for supporting the continuum of prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery support services for opioid use disorder (OUD) and other concurrent substance use disorders. The North Dakota Department of Health & Human Services’ Behavioral Health Division (BHD) plans to approach this by enhancing services and capacity statewide and community-specific, while also focusing on several priority areas. Statewide, the number of drug overdose deaths increased from 76 in 2019 to 136 in 2022, decreasing to114 in 2023 (ND Health Statistics and Performance). In 2023, 67% of the overdose deaths involved an opiate and more specifically, 62% of the overdose deaths involved fentanyl. The percentage of individuals receiving treatment through the public behavioral health system or reimbursed through the state’s Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Voucher program who report use of opioids range from 3% to 28% (ND TEDS [2023], ND SUD Voucher active clients [2023]). There are four licensed Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) in the state and the combined census increased from 802 in May 2022 to 1,100 in May 2023 (ND Central Registry). To accomplish the first goal to prevent substance (mis)use with a specific focus on opioids and stimulants, the following, summarized objectives were identified: (1) Increase the reach of messaging for ""Parents Lead"" and “Opioids: Take Care, Be Aware” to nearly 588,500 North Dakotans; (2) Deepen the impact of the ONE Program by screening at least 3,000 individuals at participating pharmacies; and (3) Provide education on medication safety to at least 15,000 school aged and transitional aged youth. To accomplish the second goal to reduce harm related to opioids and stimulants, the following, summarized objectives were identified: (1) Establish at least one new Syringe Service Program; and (2) Disseminate at least 23,350 naloxone kits to individuals most likely to witness an overdose and in locations where they are most likely to occur. To accomplish the third goal to improve access to evidence-based treatment, the following, summarized objectives were identified: (1) Integrate MOUD in at least 3 additional healthcare settings; and (2) Integrate MOUD in at least 2 county correctional settings. To accomplish the final goal to increase access to recovery support services, the following, summarized objective was identified: (1) Integrate Peer Support Specialists in at least 3 new settings/service. The BHD will partner with the state’s Health Equity Office (HEO) to address the needs of diverse populations throughout all efforts in order to accomplish all SOR program goals and objectives. The BHD will review the state’s SOR proposed strategies with the HEO to ensure strategies and activities will promote behavioral health equity. The BHD has a long-standing history of partnering with North Dakota tribes on behavioral health initiatives. The BHD has specifically offered funding and resource to the four tribal nations in the state with previous iterations of the SOR grant and will continue to do so with the upcoming SOR award. Tribal nations in the state will be able to apply for funds to implement strategies aligning to the statewide SOR plan and also taking into consideration local needs and cultural differences.

The Behavioral Health Division (BHD) of the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is the Single State Authority for innovative behavioral health policy and program development. Together with experienced, compassionate, and dedicated community partners, BHD focuses on comprehensive treatment and sustainable recovery for opioid use disorder and substance use disorders, and the co-occurring symptoms of mental illness typical for these disorders. In our state, comprehensive treatment services are person-centered, culturally responsive, and linguistically adequate prevention, intervention, treatment, and short-term and long-term recovery services with sustainable positive outcomes for individuals who suffer from Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Minnesota will continue to fight the opioid crisis in our state, and with the tools and funding available to us. Person-centered, culturally responsive, linguistically adequate, evidence-based treatment and recovery services for OUD and SUD is the best approach for our diverse populations of need. Our lens is on health disparities and on health equity. In 2022, the most recent year for which comparable data is available, the drug overdose mortality rate disparities in Minnesota have worsened, especially for American Indians. The 2022 rates are 257.7 per 100,000 residents for American Indians; and 79.2 per 100,000 residents for African Americans. The rate for Whites is 16.6 per 100,000 residents. In Minnesota, an estimated 10,522 individuals have been experiencing homelessness. While all causes of death have been found more common among those experiencing homelessness than the general Minnesota population, deaths from substance use are 10 times higher among people experiencing homelessness than the general population in Minnesota. The Minnesota Department of Human Services acknowledges the continued need to provide an immediate and effective OUD response to the following populations of need: Black Minnesotans; American Indians; and individuals who are hard to reach, such as those living in rural Minnesota, pregnant and parenting women, individuals who are experiencing homelessness, veterans, and individuals belonging to other communities of color. The FY2024 Minnesota Opioid Response Grant project will serve 900 unduplicated individuals with OUD, 250 in the first year of the funding, 300 in the second year of funding, and 350 in the third year of the funding. Some prevention services include: school-based prevention; Naloxone distribution and training; and evidence-based public awareness messaging. Some treatment services include the following: opioid prescribing and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) services in the Healthcare System and for those experiencing homelessness, MOUD for American Indian Tribes and American Indians in urban areas in Minnesota, including access to treatment for culturally responsive programming; and expanded treatment and recovery support services for justice involved individuals and adolescents.

This grant will provide access to medication-assisted treatment to reduce unmet treatment needs, and to reduce overdose deaths for Kansans with opioid use disorder or stimulant use disorder. Strategies and interventions will focus on evidence-based prevention, treatment and recovery support services. The focus will be on illicit use of prescription opioids, heroin, fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, as well as psychostimulants.