Newport, Rhode Island is Getting Money from the White House for Addiction Treatment
Federal Funding Boosts Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Services in Rhode Island
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse has announced that Rhode Island will receive a significant influx of funding to support mental health and substance use treatment services, thanks to the final version of the American Rescue Plan passed by the Senate. As the state continues to confront the devastating effects of the opioid crisis, this new funding arrives at a critical moment.
“Pandemic-related isolation and stress have presented new challenges for many Rhode Islanders, especially those walking the long, noble road of recovery,” said Whitehouse. “I was pleased to help deliver additional resources to bolster mental health and substance use treatment in Rhode Island as demand for those services remains high.”
What’s in the American Rescue Plan for Recovery and Mental Health?
The American Rescue Plan includes several key funding streams aimed at expanding access to treatment, prevention, and recovery infrastructure—both statewide and nationally.
🟪 $1.5 Billion for Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment (SAPT) Block Grants
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Expected allocation for Rhode Island: $3–4 million
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These funds are distributed by SAMHSA to the state, which then supports local governments and community organizations
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Funds will support both treatment and prevention initiatives
🟦 $80 Million for Community-Based Mental Health Services
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A new federal grant program that allows Rhode Island organizations to apply directly
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Supports:
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Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
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Telemedicine-based services
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Behavioral health workforce development
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🟩 $420 Million for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs)
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Additional funding for existing certified providers in Rhode Island, including:
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Thrive Behavioral Health
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Newport Mental Health
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Horizon Healthcare Partner Community Care Alliance
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This funding allows organizations already enrolled in the CCBHC model to continue providing comprehensive, integrated services for people with mental health and substance use disorders.
Why This Funding Matters
Rhode Island is facing one of the most serious addiction crises in its history. In 2020, the state recorded more than 400 overdose deaths, according to public health advocates—a tragic new high. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified the problem by:
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Increasing social isolation and stress
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Disrupting access to treatment services and peer support
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Limiting outreach from harm reduction programs
This funding helps close the gaps created during the pandemic and supports long-term recovery infrastructure.
Whitehouse’s Legacy in Addiction Policy
Senator Whitehouse has long been a national leader on addiction policy:
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Co-author of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), passed in 2016
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Advocated for evidence-based treatment, recovery support, and harm reduction
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Pushed for continued federal investment in behavioral health services
This new round of funding reflects the continued federal commitment to support communities like Rhode Island in tackling the overdose epidemic head-on.
🔍 Looking for Support?
If you or a loved one is in recovery or seeking help, supportive housing can be a crucial part of the healing process. The Sober House Directory is a free national tool designed to help you find certified sober living homes in Rhode Island and beyond.
💡 Operator Spotlight: Vanderburgh Sober Living
Thinking about opening a sober house yourself? VSL is the first organization in the U.S. to offer sober living charters, helping individuals and organizations create structured, supportive, and sustainable recovery residences.
💬 Final Thoughts
Rhode Island’s share of the American Rescue Plan offers more than funding—it offers hope. For individuals in recovery, for families searching for support, and for community providers doing the hard work every day, this legislation marks a powerful investment in mental health and healing.
Stay informed. Stay supported. And take it one day at a time.