Agenda 06-02-2026; 6-a - Opioid Advisory Committee Settlement Use Recommendations

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56 1. Proposal Summary(no more than 250 words, required but not scored) Freedom House Recovery Center(FHRC) is excited to submit this proposal under Option A, Implementation Strategy 10: Criminal Justice Diversion Programs, aimed at enhancing pre-arrest and post-arrest diversion initiatives, as well as pre-trial services for individuals entangled in the justice system due to substance use disorders (SUD) and opioid use disorders (OUD). We propose strengthening our ongoing collaboration with the Criminal Justice Resource Department (CJRD)through the Lantern Project. FHRC offers evidence-based treatment options and recovery support services designed to effectively connect justice-involved individuals— especially those from marginalized communities—who have a history of OUD and SUD with appropriate treatment resources. Our mission is to serve all in our community on their path to recovery–no matter who they are or what challenges they face. We achieve this by providing essential treatment resources and peer support that foster recovery and promote healthier outcomes among historically underserved populations involved in the justice system. Our services facilitate access to stable employment, secure housing, and meaningful family reunification. For Lantern Project participants, we deliver vital re-entry support and treatment assistance to significantly reduce rates of recidivism and relapse while enhancing the chances of long-term recovery among low-level Class H and Class I offenders,where substance use often plays a significant role. Launched in 2021, Lantern Project serves as a critical resource for law enforcement diversion, harm reduction, and treatment for individuals grappling with SUD and OUD.This initiative, a partnership with FHRC,was established to tackle the devastating opioid crisis and address the increasing number of individuals with OUD cycling through the Orange County justice system. iii