Recovery Community Organizations suffering due to shutdown

Faces & Voices of Recovery wrote on its website last week that Recovery Community Organizations (RCOs) and peer‐led support providers are facing mounting challenges under the shutdown. With federal and state agencies unable to process grant payments or renew contracts, many organizations are facing a threat to their ability to deliver services. “Recovery support services are not optional—they are essential,” said Patty McCarthy, CEO of Faces & Voices of Recoveryl.” The shutdown is delaying critical funding streams and these delays are destabilizing organizations that serve people in recovery every day. We urge Congress to act swiftly to restore funding and protect vital recovery programs such as the BCOR grants and the Peer TA center.” And the impact is being felt by people who need these services. “We're seeing more people walk through our doors every day, but with fewer resources to support them,” said Laurie Johnson‐Wade, director of Lost Dreams Awakening. “Our staff are stretched thin, and we're having to make tough decisions about which programs we can continue. Recovery doesn't pause for politics—our communities need support now.” Most RCOs live on federal and state grants under these terms: first they pay for costs, then they are reimbursed for payment. During a shutdown, the wait is indefinite. If there is no bridge funding, some organizations may be forced to reduce services or furlough staff. The solution, said McCarthy, is for recovery advocates to contact their elected officials. “We need every voice,” McCarthy said. “Tell Congress how this shutdown is impacting your organization and your community. Recovery services must be funded without delay.”