The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), also known as the Department of Health, announced on Monday (February 2) that they will allocate $100 million in accordance with an executive order signed by President Donald Trump last week pertaining to the treatment of drug addiction issues. The department will launch a pilot program in eight cities to address drug abuse, addiction, and homelessness.
Minister of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made the announcement at the annual Prevention Day event held by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The Department of Health will also approve funding for faith-based organizations to address addiction issues and expand authorization to states, utilizing federal health funds to address drug abuse in certain cases involving children.
In general, drug addiction issues often start with drug abuse. Once addicted, it exacerbates drug abuse, creating a vicious cycle that leads to poverty, homelessness, affecting various aspects of social life, including drug trafficking across borders, border issues, and significant political problems involving government reform related to these issues.
The new initiatives by the Department of Health demonstrate that the Trump administration is addressing a crucial issue closely related to many Americans and in urgent need of solutions.
These initiatives by the Department of Health inject new momentum into the executive order signed by President Trump last Thursday. The order initiated the “Great American Recovery Initiative” as described by Trump, aimed at better integrating federal resources to address the addiction crisis.
Kennedy has publicly discussed his past struggles with heroin addiction and his determination and resolve to remain sober for life.
Department of Health spokesperson Andrew Nixon stated, “The department is committed to reform to ensure that federal resources are used effectively and responsibly to bring tangible results to those in distress and their families.”
He added, “As part of the ‘Great American Recovery Initiative’ announced last week, the Department of Health is advancing new funding, expanding flexibility, taking targeted actions, strengthening mental health and addiction treatment systems, and providing greater support for frontline service providers.”
Federal data shows that drug overdose deaths decreased for most of 2025, indicating a sustained improvement in the drug abuse crisis that has been deteriorating for decades, although the rate of decline is slowing.
Kennedy emphasized that SAMHSA’s pilot program, titled “Safety Through Recovery, Engagement and Evidence-Based Treatment and Supports” (STREETS), will initially target eight unspecified street communities to establish comprehensive care systems for the homeless, drug abuse, and mental health patients, helping them find housing and employment.
Later on Monday, Kennedy attended the launch ceremony of the bipartisan initiative called “Action for Progress,” focused on preventing drug abuse and promoting mental health.
The event was initiated by Kennedy’s cousin, former Democratic Congressman and current partner at Healthsperien, Patrick Kennedy.
Patrick Kennedy stated at the ceremony that two descendants of one of America’s most prominent political families stood on different sides during the 2024 presidential election. Fortunately, they found common ground on an issue they both are passionate about.
Patrick Kennedy has also openly discussed his bipolar disorder and his struggles with alcohol and addiction.
The former Rhode Island congressman mentioned in a phone interview on Monday, “When the two of us walk into a recovery center, we don’t care if we are Democrats or Republicans. I grew up with my cousin, I understand him, and I had the opportunity to share everything I’ve learned over the years in promoting mental health and preventing addiction policy-making, which he greatly welcomed.”
(Reference from the Associated Press)