Program Overview - Fresh Start in Columbia, Tennessee, provides group homes for women in recovery, aiming to build community [1] - The program faced a budget cut of approximately 25% due to the elimination of a federal grant for substance abuse prevention and treatment [2] - Due to budget constraints, Fresh Start had to close one of its five rented houses and cannot afford necessary repairs [3] Impact on Residents - Residents like Beth, who has a history of opioid use and has been revived with Narcan multiple times (13 times in one week), rely on the program for support and stability [3] - Budget cuts have forced residents to buy their own groceries, leading to concerns about food security [4] - Residents express fears of relapse and homelessness if the program continues to shrink or shut down [5] Government Response - The Department of Health and Human Services claims that essential mental health and substance use programs continue [6] - Residents question the decisions made in Washington, emphasizing their worth and potential for recovery [6]

Funding & Budget Cuts - Fresh Start, a recovery program for women, experienced a budget cut of approximately 25% due to the elimination of a federal grant for substance abuse prevention and treatment [1] - The grant, part of over $1 billion in nationwide cuts, was eliminated by the Trump administration to streamline spending and consolidate public health programs [1] - The organization had to close one of its five rented houses due to budget constraints [1] - The program could no longer afford to provide groceries for residents [1] - There are concerns that the grant will not be replaced [1] Impact on Residents - Residents are now responsible for buying their own groceries, leading to reduced food consumption [1] - Residents express fear of relapse and homelessness if the program continues to shrink or shut down [1] - The program provides a supportive environment for women in recovery, offering community and assistance in rebuilding their lives [1] Program Operations - Fresh Start aims to build community for women in recovery [1] - The program provides housing and support for women overcoming opioid addiction [1] - Residents are rebuilding bonds with their families [1]