Grant part of effort to combat state’s opioid epidemic
New York – People USA (formerly PEOPLe Inc.), a peer-run, not-for-profit agency that advocates and provides recovery-oriented services for people living with mental health issues or trauma, is one of five nonprofits that will share in a $10 million grant from Governor Andrew M. Cuomo for expansion of services. The grant will be administered by the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services.
People USA will use $2.38 million from the grant to support the development of 20 new community-based, Medically Supervised Withdrawal and Stabilization Services beds throughout Putnam, Orange, Dutchess, Ulster, Columbia, and Greene Counties.
Cuomo said the funding will widen services for people battling addiction, especially in communities hard-hit by the opioid epidemic.
“Communities across the country have felt the impact of the opioid epidemic and New York will continue to combat this scourge until this crisis has been eradicated once and for all,” Governor Cuomo said in a statement. “This funding will bring desperately needed resources to communities across state, allowing us to reach more people and get them the help they need.”
Steve Miccio, Chief Executive Officer for People USA, said the grant will provide even greater opportunities to help individuals gain knowledge on whole health and wellness approaches when facing substance use issues. People USA’s person-centered trauma informed practice will assist families experiencing the overwhelming nature of addiction.
“Governor Cuomo fully understands the pressure agencies like People USA face each day as we work to provide these critical services,” Miccio said. “The state grant will support the expansion of 20 beds in a part of the state that is often overwhelmed with the need for addiction services.”
