The 2021 Virtual COSSAP National Forum’s theme was COSSAP 2021—New Partners, New Tools, Renewed Hope. Session topics included how jurisdictions are pivoting during the COVID-19 pandemic to meet the needs of their communities, using innovation to build or expand successful partnerships, harm-reduction programs, first responder diversion programs, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs, and more—and to incorporate equity, diversity, and inclusion. During Grantee Spotlight sessions, COSSAP grantees shared their experiences, including project successes, challenges faced, barriers overcome, and best practices for continued services during unprecedented times. Throughout the event, attendees had opportunities to ask panelists questions, engage in mentoring opportunities, and network with peers.
Tuesday, November 16 – Opening Day of Forum
Wednesday, November 17 – Second Day of Forum
Thursday, November 18 – Closing Day of Forum
The forum was held on November 16–18, 2021.
Forum resources can be viewed using the button below.
America’s substance misuse crisis is a public safety and public health emergency that threatens the well-being of individuals who misuse drugs as well as their families, communities, and, ultimately, the nation. It impacts first responders, the criminal justice system, child welfare and foster care, behavioral health systems, and victim service providers. Supporting the field in addressing this epidemic is one of the U.S. Department of Justice’s top priorities, and at the center of this response is the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s (BJA) Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Program (COSSAP).
The goals of COSSAP are to:
The following agencies are BJA’s current COSSAP training and technical assistance (TTA) providers. To learn more about the COSSAP TTA Program, read the COSSAP TTA Program Overview briefing sheet. Explore these overviews to learn about the wealth of expertise offered by the COSSAP TTA Collaborative members.
