VIENNA, Ill. — Nonprofit human services organization Arrowleaf announced Monday that it has been awarded a five-year federal grant to expand substance use prevention efforts across Southern Illinois.
The grant was awarded through the Strategic Prevention Framework – Partnerships for Success Program and provides $250,000 annually. These funds aim to increase prevention efforts in Alexander, Hardin, Johnson, Massac, Pope, Pulaski, and Union Counties.
“These rural communities face persistent poverty, limited healthcare access, and some of the state’s highest rates of methamphetamine and fentanyl use,” Arrowleaf said.
Over five years, Arrowleaf expects to serve 1,125 individuals, including 125 in the prorated first year and 250 annually thereafter. According to Arrowleaf, program evaluation by REA Analytics will guide continuous improvement and measure outcomes such as increased referrals, expanded harm-reduction access, and stronger community engagement.
“We believe this work represents an important step forward in addressing substance use disparities and improving behavioral health outcomes in rural Southern Illinois,” said Sherrie L. Crabb, CEO of Arrowleaf.
The initiative will focus on youth from ages 18 to 25, pregnant women, and families involved in child welfare — groups Arrowleaf identifies as being at heightened risk for substance use and barriers to care.
The funding aims to expand early screening, strengthen referral pathways, and increase evidence-based prevention initiatives. Local providers will receive training and new curriculum with the goal of improving early identification of substance abuse risk. Harm-reduction education, stigma-reduction efforts, and overdose-prevention strategies will also be incorporated.
According to Arrowleaf, a Program Manager and Peer Liaison will be hired to support community outreach and family navigation. A Southern Illinois Communities for Substance Use Prevention Advisory Council will also be set up, focusing on bringing together child welfare, healthcare, education, and community partners to support implementation and sustainability.
“Arrowleaf is committed to building healthier, more resilient communities,” said Crabb. “This funding allows us to expand prevention efforts and support families throughout Southern Illinois.”
