Background:
The Sunrise Fire Rescue Department has been working with the Department of Health since May 2025 on the post-overdose Co-Responder program previously approved through City Commission, which provides post-overdose support to residents. The Fire Rescue Department is looking to continue this program, in collaboration with the Department of Health, to provide services to the Sunrise Community.
The grant award in the amount of $344,998.00 will be utilized to enhance the Fire Rescue Department's Community Risk Reduction Program by providing additional support to the Community Paramedic to conduct follow-up visits with patients discharged from the hospital due to substance abuse-related incidents. As part of this City Commission Agenda, a Personnel Summary Amendment is being requested to add a full-time Social Worker position in the Fire Rescue Department, which will be fully funded from these grant funds. In addition, the Community Risk Reduction Program will be enhanced with social support resources, harm reduction services, behavioral health treatment, and other associated treatment options, to reduce repeat overdoses and improve long-term recovery outcomes. Additional direct support, such as food assistance, housing support, and transportation services will also be provided, when applicable.
This grant funding will enhance our Community Paramedic Program to allow for substance abuse education and overdose prevention training. This community support initiative aligns with our ongoing efforts to mitigate the opioid crisis in our community and will provide much needed proactive care.
The grant will cover personnel costs, training, equipment, and necessary program resources. The Department of Health will pay the City up to $344,998.00 for the contract term. Payments will be made as follows: for the periods May 2026 through April 2027 and May 2027 through April 2028, there will be equal monthly payments of $12,321.00, for a total not to exceed $147,852.00 in any contract year. For the period May 2028 through August 2028, there will be equal monthly payments of $12,321.00, for a total not to exceed $49,284.00 for the contract period.
As with all contracts with the State of Florida, venue for any legal actions arising from this agreement is in Leon County, Florida.
It is requested that the City Commission approve the award of these grant funds and authorize the Fire Chief to execute the necessary agreements and amendments to effectuate this grant award, subject to approval of the City Attorney's Office.