(February 3, 2026) The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., unveiled a series of federal actions aimed at addressing addiction, homelessness and related behavioral health challenges. These moves build on a recent executive order from President Donald Trump focused on expanding national efforts to combat substance use disorders.
At an annual Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) event, HHS announced it will allocate $100 million to a pilot program targeting interconnected issues of substance abuse, mental health and homelessness in eight U.S. cities. This initiative, called STREETS (Safety Through Recovery, Engagement and Evidence-based Treatment and Supports), is designed to coordinate services such as counseling, housing support and employment pathways for individuals experiencing homelessness with substance use challenges.
The department also said it will open eligibility for addiction-related federal grants to include faith-based organizations and give states more flexibility in using federal health funds for substance abuse treatment in cases involving children. These changes aim to broaden the range of service providers and support options available in communities.
The announcements follow earlier federal actions involving the abrupt cancellation and subsequent reversal of nearly $2 billion in SAMHSA grant funding, which drew significant attention from providers and policymakers. While the newly announced programs signal continued federal engagement on addiction and mental health policy, details on funding sources and implementation timelines remain limited.
This federal push reflects ongoing efforts to adapt the nation’s response to substance use disorders, homelessness and behavioral health needs within a shifting public health and policy landscape.
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