Damien Center receives $2.5M federal grant
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Indianapolis-based Damien Center will use a $2.5 million federal grant to launch a new intensive outpatient program.
The organization said Tuesday that the funding from Department of Health and Human Services will support the CARE program, which will provide treatment for substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders.
The funding is being awarded through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
“This funding will allow Damien Center to expand our treatment of substance use disorders by removing barriers to accessing treatment and meeting people where they are along their recovery journey,” said Alan Witchey, president and CEO at Damien Center. “By offering culturally competent treatment and support to these individuals who have historically had the least access and may have been afraid to seek care due to stigma, mistrust, and traumatization, we will improve the overall health and wellness of individuals in our community.”
The program will provide a more intensive treatment plan for people with more need. The center currently has a once-a-week outpatient program. The new program will seek to especially help the LGBTQ community and minority populations.
The organization said the CARE program will provide faster access to help and expand its medication-assisted treatment, HIV and hepatitis testing and harm reduction kits. The center will hire two more therapists and two peer recovery specialists.
Program enrollment will likely start in January.
The Damien Center was one of over 80 organizations to receive funding during this $35 million funding round.