Nearly $12 million in funding is being directed to Washington State by the Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs (OJP) to support drug treatment programs. This announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman, who emphasized the importance of these grants in addressing addiction issues within the state.
“These DOJ grants recognize the need for treatment in our state, and also highlight the good work being done here to break the cycle of addiction,” said U.S. Attorney Gorman. “It is a competitive process to get this funding and I congratulate the counties, tribes and organizations who successfully applied for these grants.”
The largest portion of this funding, amounting to $7 million, will be allocated to the Washington State Health Care Authority. This grant aims to enhance substance use treatment programs within communities and correctional facilities. Additionally, it will fund opioid overdose training for law enforcement officers and establish a peer mentoring program for individuals with substance use disorders transitioning out of prison.
Pierce County will receive $1.6 million focused on improving substance abuse treatment options in rural areas, specifically targeting justice-involved adults. The effectiveness of this initiative will be studied to identify best practices.
Grays Harbor County has been awarded $1 million aimed at enhancing Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment within its jail system. These funds will facilitate mental health services alongside SUD treatment and collaborate with the Coastal Community Action Program to assist individuals transitioning from incarceration back into society.
The Progress House Association, a private non-profit organization, secured $833,000 in funding to improve treatment and recovery services for 170 incarcerated individuals across King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Thurston Counties. The focus will be on treating both substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health issues.
Additionally, two tribal nations have received grants supporting their substance use and mental health initiatives. The Tulalip Tribes of Washington were granted $718,151 to expand their Family Wellness Court by employing a dedicated Social Worker and Recovery Support Specialist aimed at family reunification efforts impacted by substance abuse disorder.
The Lummi Nation received $550,000 dedicated to establishing a Mental Health Court for tribal members dealing with mental health challenges alongside substance use disorders. This program seeks to enhance integrated treatment plans through increased support services.