MDHHS invests $3.4 million of opioid settlement funds to expand Michigan recovery residences

18 organizations awarded funding; 205 new recovery beds added

LANSING, Mich. - To help people impacted by substance use disorder sustain their recovery, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) partnered with the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) to increase the number of recovery beds through the Recovery Housing Investment Program (RHIP).

"Every person in recovery deserves the chance to rebuild their life with dignity, connection and hope," said Amy Epkey, acting MDHHS director. "When we invest in recovery supports, we're investing in stronger families, safer communities and a healthier Michigan."

Through a competitive grant process, 18 agencies were awarded $3.4 million to purchase or lease 24 new recovery residences across 14 counties. This will bring an estimated 205 new recovery beds to Michigan communities to provide stable and supportive living environments for people in recovery.

"Recovery is about more than overcoming addiction. It's about having the stability and support to rebuild your life and reconnect with the people and communities that matter most. Housing is foundational to that journey," said Amy Hovey, MSHDA CEO and executive director. "By expanding access to recovery housing, we're helping more Michiganders find a safe place to heal, regain their independence and build a healthier future for themselves and their families."

The following organizations were awarded funding:

"Recovery housing gives people the stability they need to heal, rebuild and continue moving forward," said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarin, chief medical executive and chair of the Opioids Task Force. "Housing is more than a roof. It's a foundation for long-term wellness, employment, connection and community participation."

Previous RHIP investments have resulted in 136 new recovery beds at 18 properties in six counties. One resident shared the following testimonial about the impact of having access to a recovery residence:

"The biggest impact has been on my relationship with my 13-year-old daughter. There was a time when that relationship was at risk because of my addiction. Today, it is as strong as it has ever been. I am present, consistent and someone she can trust. I get to show up as her father in a real and meaningful way. That is something I don't take for granted, and it would not be possible without the stability (this recovery residence) has given me."

MDHHS continues to make significant investments in expanding access to recovery housing. In the last few months, more than $12 million in opioid settlement dollars has been awarded to more than 50 community agencies that offer community-based supports and recovery residences.

The state is slated to receive more than $1.8 billion from national opioid settlements by 2040, with half distributed to the State of Michigan Opioid Healing and Recovery Fund and the other half distributed directly to county, city and township governments.

More information on funded organizations is available on the MSHDA Recovery Housing Investment Program webpage.

For more information about substance use disorder resources and the state's opioid settlement investments, visit Michigan.gov/opioids.

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