The Health Foundation of Greater Cincinnati has awarded the Kentucky Department of Corrections (DOC) a $267,900 grant over three years to develop and improve existing intensive substance use disorder treatment for men and women returning to Boone, Campbell and Kenton Counties from state prisons and local jails.

According to a 2000 study by the University of Kentucky Center on Alcohol and Drug Research, at least 86% of Kentucky inmates have substance use disorders severe enough to require treatment. The DOC currently uses the evidence-based practice of connecting offenders who have had treatment while incarcerated with continuing treatment when they re-enter the community. However, many treatment services have long waiting lists because of high demand.

"It is important for these ex-offenders to be treated for their substance use disorders when they need the treatment," said Ann B. Perrin, Program Officer of the Health Foundation. "Improving and expanding the substance use disorder treatment services will decrease recidivism, decrease substance use, and improve ex-offenders' ability to maintain employment."

For this project, the Kentucky DOC will contract with Transitions, Inc., which operates the only residential substance use disorder treatment programs in Northern Kentucky.

"This grant will add 75 residential and 50 outpatient treatment slots in Northern Kentucky," said Kevin Pangburn, Mental Health Director of the Kentucky DOC Medical Division. "It also allows for staff training in new techniques so that they can improve their current services."

For more information about the substance use disorder treatment, call 502-564-2220.

The Health Foundation of Greater Cincinnati is an independent foundation dedicated to improving community health and access to health care for vulnerable populations. The Foundation awards grants to non-profit and governmental organizations for selected health programs and activities in Cincinnati and 20 surrounding counties in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. In 2004, the Health Foundation invested approximately $10.5 million to support local health care programs that address the objectives of the Foundation's four focus areas and general community health.