September 21st, 2018 by WCBC Radio

Maryland’s Opioid Operational Command Center and the Maryland Department of Health announce more than $66 million in funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to support efforts to fight the heroin and opioid epidemic.

 

Over the next two federal fiscal years, Maryland will receive an additional $66.2 million through the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant, which supports a comprehensive response to the opioid epidemic and expand access to treatment and recovery support services.

 

“In Maryland we are fighting the heroin and opioid crisis with an all-hands-on-deck approach that includes prevention, treatment, and enforcement, and this funding will support our efforts,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Combating this crisis requires every level of government to work together with communities and organizations across our state, and federal support is a critical component as we work to turn the tide of this epidemic.”

 

“Combating Maryland’s opioid epidemic and supporting the recovery of those who have overcome an addiction to drugs or alcohol continues to be a top priority for our state,” said Maryland Department of Health Secretary Robert R. Neall “The projects that will be supported through this grant will not only further our state’s collaborative response effort to combat this epidemic, but improve access to treatment for those who need it most.”

 

Funding will be used to support the following in Maryland:

·         Expansion of statewide 24/7 crisis treatment services

·         Naloxone distribution to local jurisdictions

·         Local outreach and support

·         Public awareness campaigns

·         Expansion of student assistance program

·         Adolescent education and treatment support services

·         Expansion of Screening, Brief-Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) to local emergency departments, obstetrics/gynecology practices, and school- and university/college-based health centers

·         Medication assisted treatment (MAT) expansion and support

·         Recovery support services, such as housing for young adults, homeless, and veterans

 

“All of these efforts are critical to fighting the opioid crisis,” said Clay Stamp, executive director of the Opioid Operational Command Center. “With this additional funding for initiatives like continuing naloxone distribution to our local communities and expanding crisis services, we are meeting those with substance use disorder where they are.”

 

Before It’s Too Late is the state’s effort to bring awareness to this epidemic—and to mobilize resources for effective prevention, treatment, and recovery. Marylanders grappling with a substance use disorder can find help at BeforeItsTooLateMD.org or by calling 211 and pressing 1. Additional support is available through MDCrisisConnect.org, which has information on both text and chat features.