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This month, we reflect on the power of community action from honoring lives lost to overdose on International Overdose Awareness Day to building stronger supports for young people and families impacted by substance use. Efforts like Gabriel’s Challenge remind us how local communities are coming together to create hope, healing, and recovery.
In this issue, you’ll find prevention tips, new tools for accessing life-saving naloxone, training opportunities, and updates on programs making a difference across Washington.
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International Overdose Awareness day is observed annually on August 31. This global event aims to reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths. It’s also a time to remember those we have lost to overdose and to identify ways to support those who are currently at risk. While overdose is often linked to opioids, it is important to know that other substances, like alcohol, can be fatal in large amounts. The most important thing, overdose is preventable and there are steps we can take to reduce them.
How you can reduce stigma and keep our communities protected:
- Stay connected to your loved one who is using substances. Social support is one of the strongest protective factors in reducing overdose.
- Carry naloxone (Narcan). Naloxone is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. It’s available at many pharmacies through the Statewide standing order. If you don’t have medical coverage, you can find free naloxone here.
- Get support for yourself. Your self-care is critical in reducing your loved one’s overdose risk. It can enable you with skills to remain connected while also understanding your own limits.
- If you may be at risk for overdose, carry naloxone, check your substances before use, and remember, support is available for you if you need it.
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The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law last month, has launched the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) to strengthen rural health care across the country.
Health Care Authority (HCA), along with the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), is developing Washington’s RHTP application and we need your input.
We are gathering ideas from partners, Tribes, and community members to help shape our application. We welcome:
- Ready-to-launch projects with a defined scope and implementation plan.
- Community insights on needs, regional trends, and funding opportunities.
- Innovative concepts to transform rural care delivery, including primary care, maternity services, complex care, and behavioral health.
- Opportunities to strengthen workforce, infrastructure, and technology in rural areas.
Input is due Friday, August 29.
Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has launched an online Naloxone Finder to help residents locate free naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid overdoses, including fentanyl.
This tool supports statewide overdose prevention efforts and is especially helpful for those at risk, their families, and community members.
The 2025 HearMeWA Annual Report is now available!
This third annual report shares statewide program updates, advisory committee contributions, and preliminary data from April 2024–2025, including 161 reports from 20 counties.
Top concerns were bullying, depression, and harassment.
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The Post-Inpatient Behavioral Health Treatment Facility (Post-IBHTF) Discharge Housing Program, also known as “The Bridge Housing,” offers voluntary transitional housing for young adults ages 18–24 who are exiting inpatient or residential behavioral health treatment and have not yet secured long-term housing. This short-term program provides up to 90 days in a safe, supportive environment where residents can focus on recovery and begin planning for their future.
Made possible in part through House Bill 1929, this initiative helps address a long-standing gap between treatment and stable housing. By expanding access to transitional housing, the program ensures young people leaving inpatient care are supported during an important period in their recovery.
HCA is pleased to share that Friends of Youth has now opened Bridge Pointe Housing, funded by Washington State Health Care Authority. The program offers trauma-informed, recovery-oriented services tailored to each participant’s needs, delivered by trained professionals dedicated to youth development, mental health recovery, and culturally responsive care.
Bridge Pointe is more than a temporary residence, it is a bridge to long-term stability and self-sufficiency. In addition to housing, the program connects young adults with transition support providers, community housing organizations, tribes, and individuals with lived experience to promote lasting recovery and connection.
The period following inpatient care can be a time of uncertainty and vulnerability. Bridge Pointe offers stability, safety, and a sense of belonging, providing young adults the space and support they need to heal, grow, and move forward with confidence.
How to Make a Referral
- Confirm the young person meets the initial eligibility criteria.
- The individual is between 18–24 years old and is exiting inpatient or residential behavioral health treatment and have not yet secured long-term housing
- Initial Contact with Friends of Youth
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Stay informed and connected with the latest resources and updates on behavioral health services for prenatal, child, and young adult care. Visit our website for more information on the programs and support available.
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