31 Aug Press Release: Communicare Behavioral Health Services Receives Grant Through SAMHSA to Combat Overdoses

Communicare, a behavioral health organization in Mississippi, has received a new four-year First Responders-Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery (FR-CARA) grant to combat opioid overdoses through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). This grant funding will assist Communicare, and the statewide Overdose Prevention Advisory Council make significant strides in ending opiate-related overdoses across 17 high-need communities in Mississippi.

The Community Overdose Prevention Education (COPE) program focuses on saving lives by enhancing access to overdose reversal prevention and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for fentanyl, heroin, and other opioids.

Strategies from the program include training and equipping 1,200 first responders in overdose prevention, reversal, and response and expanding Crisis Intervention Team training. Training will provide resources for safety when dealing with dangerous illicit drugs like fentanyl and carfentanil.

COPE is designed to reduce fatal and non-fatal overdoses by expanding access to overdose prevention reversal and MAT services. Additionally, the program will promote diversity, equity, and inclusion through targeted outreach efforts in underserved communities.

Key objectives for the four-year program include reversing at least 400 opiate-related overdoses and facilitating warm handoffs to opiate use disorder treatment and training 1,200 first responders.

Jackie Griffin, consultant, evaluator and grant writer for the award expressed her pride in facilitating this grant and collaborating with Communicare to create a tangible impact in reducing opiate-related overdoses and enhancing access to treatment and recovery support services. Griffin stated, “It’s been my lifelong passion to help nonprofits and human services organizations sustain their transformational work in communities. Knowing that this grant’s impact will make a genuine difference in people’s lives is immensely rewarding.”

###

About Jackie Sue Griffin & Associates: Jackie Sue Griffin & Associates is a leading consulting firm specializing in behavioral health, healthcare and social services and assists with grant writing, program development, evaluation, capacity building and professional development. With a commitment to creating positive and lasting change, the firm collaborates with organizations to secure grants, develop effective strategies, and implement transformative programs. For more information, visit jsg-associates.com.

About Communicare: Communicare is a distinguished 55-year experienced Community Mental Health Center serving Region 2 in Mississippi and dedicated to providing comprehensive behavioral health, primary care, and support services to individuals and families in need. With a focus on community-driven solutions, Communicare strives to improve the well-being and quality of life for all members of society. For more information, visit communicarems.org.