SAMHSA has announced it is now accepting applications for the first-ever Harm Reduction Grant Program and expects to issue $30 million in grant awards--$10 million over the next three years. SAMHSA plans to issue 25 awards of up to $400,000 per year for up to 3 years. SAMHSA will accept applications from State, local, Tribal, and territorial governments, Tribal organizations, non-profit community-based organizations, and primary and behavioral health organizations.
This funding will help increase access to a range of community harm reduction services and support harm reduction service providers as they work to help prevent overdose deaths and reduce health risks often associated with drug use. Providers will be asked to develop or expand evidence-based services that may include, but not be limited to: the provision of sterile syringes, safe sex kits, prevention education about synthetic opioids and other substances, overdose prevention kits including naloxone distribution, peer worker engagement, medical services, case management and referral to treatment.