Denver Expands Overdose Prevention Efforts, New Funding Opportunities

Denver is intensifying its efforts to combat the rising number of overdoses through two new funding opportunities aimed at harm reduction and behavioral health services. These initiatives are in response to a troubling increase in overdoses, particularly those linked to fentanyl and polysubstance use. The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) has reported a rise in nonfatal overdoses and is actively working with community partners to provide life-saving resources, including naloxone and fentanyl test strips. Since 2022, DDPHE has distributed over 60,000 doses of naloxone and nearly 70,000 fentanyl test strips to residents. The new funding includes the Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) Grant, which will provide approximately $1.

8 million annually to support overdose prevention education and resource distribution, with applications opening on April 1, 2025. Additionally, the Behavioral Health Services RFP will support programs that address mental health and substance use, with proposals due by April 2, 2025. These initiatives reflect Denver's commitment to addressing the overdose crisis and ensuring that individuals with substance use disorders have access to essential support services. Community members are encouraged to adopt harm reduction techniques, emphasizing the importance of carrying naloxone and testing substances when possible.