Today, U.S. Senators Joe Donnelly (D-IN) and Todd Young (R-IN), and U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky (D-IN-01) announced that the Department of Health and Human Services has awarded a grant to Porter-Starke Services under the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment program.
The $449,393 grant award is the first year of an anticipated $1.2 million program to address the increased instances of opiate addiction and overdose deaths. Specifically, the funding will be used to increase access to medication assisted treatment plans, which include counseling and other supportive services. The funding also will be used to improve services to individuals in the criminal justice system, as well as increase the use of tele-psychiatry and engage the community in the design and evaluation of treatment and response to these disorders.
President and CEO of Porter-Starke Services Matthew Burden stated, “This funding will build on our services to help those with an opioid use disorder to overcome addiction, and address transportation or financial barriers that may have prevented someone from obtaining care. We believe that treatment can and does make a difference, and our program has even been shown to help individuals improve their employment status and overall health. Through this grant, we will be able to reach even more people who are ready to begin their path to recovery.”
Senator Joe Donnelly stated, “As we work to combat the opioid abuse epidemic, this grant will help give more Hoosiers access to treatment and recovery services. I’m glad to see this grant coming to Porter-Starke Services where folks across Northwest Indiana will be able to get the assistance they need.”
Senator Todd Young stated, “As the opioid epidemic continues to devastate families and communities throughout Indiana, this grant is welcome news. We must utilize all available tools to help curb this epidemic, and I am hopeful that this funding will help more people in Northwest Indiana receive the treatment they need.”
Congressman Pete Visclosky stated, “I congratulate Mr. Burden and all the leaders of Porter-Starke Services for successfully identifying and obtaining this federal resource. Your essential health care services improve the lives of countless individuals in Northwest Indiana, and I am pleased that this grant will further expand and enhance your good work.”
For additional information on this grant program, click here.
