Michigan Addiction Recovery: Support, Peer Coaches & New Grants Available

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan is bolstering its support for individuals navigating substance use disorder (SUD) recovery through expanded access to peer recovery coaching and increased funding for recovery community organizations. These initiatives come as national data reveals a significant portion of the population engages in risky substance use, and a majority of those struggling do not receive treatment.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2024 data shows 58% of individuals aged 12 and older reported using an addictive substance in the past month. Further, nearly 60 million Americans who consume alcohol are classified as binge drinkers. These figures underscore the scale of the problem, even as the American Hospital Association notes that a substantial number of those affected do not seek or receive treatment.

A key component of Michigan’s strategy centers on peer recovery coaches (PRCs). These individuals, often in long-term recovery themselves, provide support, guidance, and a sense of hope to those embarking on their own recovery journeys. Hunter Taylor, executive director of Lifeboat Addiction Recovery Services, emphasizes the importance of this human connection. “A big part of what we do as recovery coaches is instill hope and optimism in people,” Taylor said. “We say, you can do this because look at how many people have done this before you.”

The value of peer support is particularly evident for those transitioning between treatment settings or facing challenges in maintaining sobriety. Taylor’s own experience highlights this. Having begun his recovery journey in Iowa, where peer coaching wasn’t widely available, he found crucial support upon moving to Michigan. “When I had a thought, or I had questions about what direction I should head in, I could talk to him, and he had some understanding because he had similarities to me in the addiction recovery realm,” he explained.

Mid Michigan Recovery Services is already integrating peer recovery tactics throughout its continuum of care, from outpatient services to residential treatment and “safe harbor” programs. Patrick Patterson, who leads the organization, believes the lived experience of peer coaches is invaluable. “The sense of welcome and ‘okay, and you get me’ which is really essential to human experience is what the peer brings,” Patterson said.

The state’s commitment to expanding access to PRCs is backed by financial investment. The Michigan Health and Hospital Association (MHA) recently awarded grants to seven healthcare institutions to develop or expand hospital-based peer recovery coach programs. This funding, totaling $2.5 million, will support the addition of 18 new PRCs and broaden treatment options for individuals with SUD. The initiative was funded through the state fiscal year 2025 budget, demonstrating a legislative priority for increased access to these services.

The seven organizations receiving funding are: Aspire Rural Health System, Bronson Healthcare, Corewell Health East, Henry Ford Health, Memorial Healthcare, Munson Healthcare, and Trinity Health Ann Arbor. The MHA received nine applications from organizations across seven regions of the state, indicating strong interest in expanding these programs.

Beyond hospital-based programs, Michigan is also investing in the broader recovery ecosystem. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is currently accepting letters of interest from organizations seeking funding to develop Recovery Community Centers (RCCs) and Recovery Community Organizations (RCOs). The maximum grant amount available is $75,000, with a grant period running from April 1, 2026, to September 30, 2026. Organizations interested in applying have until February 13, 2026, to submit questions and until March 1, 2026, to submit a letter of interest.

This funding builds on existing efforts to strengthen behavioral health services across the state. The Health Fund, for example, has awarded grants to organizations like Catholic Human Services to implement team-based approaches that incorporate peer support professionals. These professionals provide coaching, education, outreach, and assistance navigating the complexities of behavioral health services, while also working to reduce stigma.

As the nation prepares for the Super Bowl, recovery advocates are also encouraging individuals in recovery to proactively address potential triggers and peer pressure. Taylor suggests attending sober watch parties or celebrations as a way to maintain support and accountability during a potentially challenging time.

The combined efforts to expand peer support, increase funding for recovery organizations, and address the social factors that contribute to substance use disorder represent a comprehensive approach to tackling this complex issue in Michigan. The state’s investment signals a growing recognition of the vital role that recovery support services play in improving outcomes and fostering long-term well-being.