HHS, ONDCP, and HUD Launch First-Ever ‘Treatment First’ Toolkit to Combat Homelessness and Addiction

SAN DIEGO, CA - AUGUST 12, 2026 - Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) Director Sara Carter, and Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner today announced the Best Practices Toolkit: Addressing Homelessness and Addiction Through Treatment First. This first-of-its kind resource provides communities with practical and proven strategies to help Americans transition from homelessness and addiction to recovery and self-sufficiency.

This toolkit advances a "Treatment First" model that prioritizes coordinated and accountability-driven engagement in evidence-based treatment and recovery support services to ensure access to effective, comprehensive, and evidence-based care necessary for homeless individuals.

"Treatment must come first. Recovery begins when we connect people with effective care, not leave them trapped in addiction and homelessness," said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. "This toolkit gives communities practical, evidence-based strategies to expand treatment, support lasting recovery, and help people reclaim their independence. Together with President Trump, Director Carter, and Secretary Turner, we are building a system that restores health, strengthens communities, and offers real hope."

"Under President Trump's leadership, we will not abandon those in treatment and recovery from drug addiction because every American is worth fighting for," said ONDCP Director Carter. "This toolkit will present new, evidence-based solutions that offer hope and healing to Americans struggling with drug addiction and homelessness."

"I have met men and women whose lives have been transformed by treatment and recovery," said HUD Secretary Turner. "Housing is essential, but housing alone is not enough. This toolkit gives communities a practical playbook designed by experts across the country to put treatment first and help more homeless Americans achieve lasting recovery, stability, and independence."

Data shows75% of homeless Americans are addicted to drugs, while 78% suffer from mental illness. This toolkit was led experts nationwide who have first-hand experience and knowledge. It supports the Trump Administration's commitment to making American cities safer, improving drug treatment and recovery through the Great American Recovery Initiative, and advancing treatment first approaches.

This announcement was made at the San Diego Rescue Mission, which has been providing meals, shelter, clothing, education and job-skills training for homeless men, women, and single parents with children since 1955.