Expanding Handle With Care 2.0 (HWC 2.0) Implementation Supports and Trauma-Sensitive Training

The OJJDP FY 2020 Opioid Affected Youth Initiative (OAYI) will support the efforts of states, communities, tribal jurisdictions, nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations and institutions of higher education to implement programs and strategies that identify, respond to, treat, and support children, youth, and families impacted by the opioid epidemic.

SRI International will use funding to support local agencies and schools to implement the Handle With Care (HWC) program. HWC fosters collaboration among various local agencies such as law enforcement, EMS, fire, mental health services, and schools to identify and support students who experience trauma as a result of the opioid and substance abuse crisis. The project will build staff capacity and communication across local agencies and provide substance abuse and mental health services for students. The program also provides training and support for frontline providers to improve traumatized students’ academic, behavioral, and socio-emotional outcomes to reduce the number of youth involved in the justice system. CA/NCF