Sponsored
The numbers have risen to alarming levels. Nearly one in four people 12 and older have abused drugs in the past year. Homelessness increased by 18% from 2023 to 2024.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has responded to these concerns by initiating changes in how the government funds and expands access to rehab and addiction treatment programs. Kennedy’s plan encompasses shifts in funding, medications and programming.
Faith Based Rehabs and Federal Funding
Kennedy plans to allow religious organizations to access funding for addiction treatment programs. This potentially increases free or low-cost rehab options in some communities.
The hope is to provide additional treatment options and address all sides of the disease of addiction including spiritual needs.
Some faith organizations may embrace this new opportunity for financial support. Others may be leery of restrictions that this funding could put on their practices.
Medication Assisted Treatment and Insurance Coverage
Kennedy plans to expand access to medication assisted treatment for opioid use disorder. He is opening up federal child protection funds to be used for addiction treatment for parents.
The goal is to get parents the help they need to maintain the family unit. The hope is that it will reduce the number of children placed into foster care.
Federal Grants for Homeless and Low-Income Treatment
Kennedy has also introduced STREETS. It is short for Safety Through Recovery, Engagement and Evidence Based Treatment Supports. This $100 million initiative is designed to serve those who are experiencing homelessness and a substance use or mental health disorder.
STREETS is to be a collaboration between housing providers, healthcare providers and the legal system. They will work together to fill current gaps in treatment and support.
Kennedy is also granting $10 million to expand assisted outpatient treatment. It may increase publicly funded mental health and rehab services. These court appointed programs mandate mental health care provision for those with a dual diagnosis of addiction and serious mental health disorders.
The Federal initiatives are pivoting away from previous Housing First methods. Some are concerned that these policies are too aggressive. Others see opportunity.
Time will tell if these changes can make a positive impact on the rates of homelessness and addiction.
Affordable Treatment For Addiction
You can explore free or low-cost rehabs near you to compare programs and insurance coverage. Call
800-914-7089
(
Sponsored)
fo additional information. Understanding your financial options is often the first step toward getting help.
More Stories Like This
