Shapiro Administration invests over $2 million into recovery housing

(WHTM) — The Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) announced a $2 million investment to improve Pennsylvanians’ access to substance use disorder recovery housing.

According to the Shapiro Administration, the $2 million grant will go to five Pennsylvania organizations that aim to improve access to substance use disorder recovery houses licensed through the DDAP.

The Shapiro Administration said that funding for the grants is provided from opioid settlement funding that resulted from a multistate investigation of opioid manufacturers and distributors led by then-Attorney General Josh Shapiro.

“These organizations understand the intersection between individuals with an SUD and housing insecurity,” said DDAP Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones. “This funding will help provide another resource for individuals, whether they are in outpatient or residential SUD treatment, to access safe and supportive housing through a DDAP-licensed recovery house—an essential part of their recovery journey. By making this investment, we’re contributing to the positive outcomes for those in recovery, including decreased substance use, reduced likelihood to return to use, lower rates of incarceration, higher income, increased employment, and improved family relationships.”

The five organizations receiving funding of up to $500,000 from the grant include:

• The Bridge Foundation: Philadelphia
• The Worx!: Allegheny County
• Sage’s Army: Allegheny, Westmorland, Fayette, and Washington counties
• Westmoreland Community Action: Westmoreland, Fayette, Washington, Somerset, Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Greene, Lawrence, Butler, Armstrong, Indiana, Clearfield, Jefferson, Clarion, Mercer, Venango, Forest, Elk, McKean, and Crawford counties
• Life-Changing Pathways: Adams and York counties

“Having a safe and stable place to live is one of the most important pieces of the recovery journey. Too often, people struggle to find quality recovery housing, which can put their progress in sustaining their recovery at risk,” said Janice Olson, Sage’s Army Director of Operations. “With this funding from DDAP, Sage’s Army can help connect more individuals to supportive housing that fosters accountability, personal growth, and a strong recovery community.”