Advancing Cross Cutting Engagement and Strategies Service

A service provider is sought to deliver comprehensive engagement and support services for people who use drugs in Maryland. The scope includes educating the community on opioid overdose recognition, implementing compassionate response strategies focused on restoring breathing, and avoiding withdrawal. The provider will be responsible for prescribing and dispensing naloxone, supplying necessary administration materials, and distributing drug testing strips as required.

Priority is given to services that target individuals most likely to witness an overdose, including people who use drugs and their friends and family members. The provider will deliver infectious disease prevention education, rapid HIV and HCV testing, and mobile or community-based drug checking using agency-approved equipment. Additional responsibilities involve offering education and supplies for drug-related wound care, ensuring low-barrier access to medications for opioid use disorder such as methadone and buprenorphine, and providing reproductive health education and services.

Further services include pharmacy-based naloxone voucher programs, wellness and somatic health offerings, temporary housing assistance, and transportation support—particularly through navigator or peer-led models. The provider should also implement telehealth initiatives for underserved communities and manage public health vending machines or community naloxone box installations to increase accessibility.