BALTIMORE, MD (July 28, 2015) – Baltimore city will receive federal funds for up to three years to treat substance abuse from a new grant awarded by the Department of Health and Human Services. The funds, roughly $815,000 annually, were awarded to the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, for up to three years to be used in Baltimore city and Anne Arundel County.

Statement from Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen

“Heroin addiction is a public health epidemic in Baltimore. Last year there were 303 total drug and alcohol overdose deaths in Baltimore city, more than the number of homicides. The influx of federal funds to help with treatment is a necessary step in helping the city to reduce heroin use, prevent overdose deaths, and improve access to addiction treatment. Just like we would not turn away a patient having a heart attack from a hospital, we need facilities to treat the disease of substance abuse. That means 24/7 access to treatment. We thank our federal legislators for their advocacy on behalf of OneBaltimore and the Department of Health and Human Services for awarding this grant, and look forward to working with our state partners to ensure that the funds are targeted to Baltimore and our areas most in need. ”

Earlier this month, the city released the findings from the Mayor’s Heroin Treatment and Prevention Task Force, calling for 10 bold steps to attack the city’s epidemic of heroin and opioid addiction. Recommendations included having 24/7 “treatment on demand” for substance users and a public education campaign to encourage treatment and combat stigma (www.dontdie.org). It is estimated 18,900 people have used heroin in the past year in Baltimore.