First Responders-Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act

The First Responders-Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (FR-CARA) grant program is a federally funded initiative administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This program aligns with broader national efforts to combat the opioid crisis, reflecting the public health mission of SAMHSA to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America's communities. The FR-CARA program was authorized under the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act to address the growing opioid epidemic, particularly by supporting the frontline efforts of first responders. The primary goal of the FR-CARA grant is to support training and equipping first responders and community members with FDA-approved opioid overdose reversal medications. These include but are not limited to naloxone (Narcan), a life-saving treatment that can rapidly counteract the effects of opioid overdose. This program seeks to increase the availability and administration of these medications during overdose situations, particularly in underserved communities and high-risk areas. The overarching objective is to reduce opioid-related deaths through rapid response interventions by trained personnel. Funding under this program may be used to train first responders, distribute opioid reversal medication, and implement protocols for effective overdose response. It also supports community-based overdose education initiatives and partnerships with key stakeholders such as health departments, public safety agencies, and local coalitions. However, allowable spending must be aligned with the program’s intent to expand access to opioid reversal medications and improve emergency response capabilities. Eligibility for the FR-CARA program is statutorily limited to state governments, local governmental entities, and American Indian or Alaska Native (AI/AN) tribes and tribal organizations. This limitation ensures that the funds are directed to public-serving bodies with the infrastructure and authority to implement large-scale overdose prevention programs. The application does not require any cost-sharing or matching contribution from applicants, which may increase accessibility for smaller or resource-limited jurisdictions. As of this forecast, the opportunity is not yet open for applications. The estimated posting date for the full notice of funding opportunity is May 1, 2026. The due date for applications has not been specified yet. Given its forecast status, applicants should monitor Grants.gov and SAMHSA communications for updates and prepare to respond quickly once the application window opens. There are no current pre-application requirements listed, such as Letters of Intent or Concept Papers, based on available forecast information. The FR-CARA program anticipates awarding approximately $35.6 million in total funding, with an estimated 118 individual awards to be made. While the specific award ceiling and floor are not yet disclosed, the scale suggests significant support per grantee. Applicants and interested stakeholders may direct questions to Shannon Hastings at 202-961-8620 or email [email protected]. The expected project start date and award dates have not yet been published, and no PDF funding announcement is currently available at this stage.