The Preventive Measures Foundation (TPMF) was awarded the BIPOC (Black & Indigenous People of Color) PA State Grant to Reduce Opioid Overdose Rates. The $399,000 grant will be used to fund a new Community Service Workers (CSW) Program.
The CSW Program addresses the high rate of opioid overdose in Pennsylvania, particularly the City of Allentown, by hiring individuals who are familiar with the places that this targeted population frequent. Community Service Workers work to build relationships that will increase trust and allow the CSW to engage clients in seeking services and increasing compliance once services start.
CSWs will look to eliminate barriers and reduce high risk behaviors for these clients that often suffer from comorbid disorders such as Mental Health Illness and Drug Addiction. The client will be supported in the follow ways: getting documentation needed to get a valid PA ID, mental health services, behavioral health insurance, access to medical care, help with housing, getting a job, connecting to local services, food, referrals to drug treatment, and other basic needs. The program also includes funding support for psychiatric evaluations, and clinical assessments done by Licensed Clinicians.
The program is the first of its kind in Pennsylvania, and was modeled after the Community Support Worker Program, through which Preventive Measures serves thousands of individuals in Washington, DC.
The goal of the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol for this funding opportunity is to invest additional resources to BIPOC-led and/or BIPOC-supporting organizations to implement effective strategies in reducing racial inequities in SUD-related outcomes. To learn more about the CSW Program email info@thepmfoundation.org or visit CSW Program | The PM Foundation.