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November 12, 2026 - Philadelphia, PA

Shapiro Administration's Substance Use Disorder 24/7 Helpline Connects More Than 69,000 Pennsylvanians to Lifesaving Treatment, Marks 10-Year Milestone by Expanding Efforts to Reach Those Who Need Help the Most

Today, Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones announced the 10-year impact of DDAP's Get Help Now helpline, which has connected tens of thousands of Pennsylvanians affected by substance use disorder (SUD) to treatment services and supports since 2016.

Since its launch, the Get Help Now helpline has:
Received more than 150,000 calls, texts, and chats from individuals looking for help with SUD;
Connected more than 69,000 individuals with a direct "warm transfer" to a treatment provider;
Assisted more than 11,000 uninsured Pennsylvanians and 800 veterans; and
Provided help to Pennsylvanians across all 67 counties.

"This milestone reflects DDAP's continued commitment to ensuring individuals and families seeking help for substance use disorders have access to timely information, treatment navigation, and recovery supports regardless of where they live in Pennsylvania," said Secretary Davis-Jones. "Behind every call to the Get Help Now helpline is a person who may be taking one of the most important steps of their life - asking for help. The Shapiro Administration is working every day to ensure Pennsylvanians know that treatment is available, recovery is possible, and help is just a phone call away."

Interviewees
Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, DDAP
Kellen Matthews-Thompson - Kellen Runs Philly founder and individual in recovery

Panel 1
Moderator: Heather Major - Independence Blue Cross Foundation President
Kellen Matthews-Thompson - Kellen Runs Philly founder and individual in recovery
Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, DDAP

Panel 2
Moderator: Heather Major - Independence Blue Cross Foundation President
Kellen Matthews-Thompson - Kellen Runs Philly founder and individual in recovery
Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, DDAP
Megan Gross - Get Help Now Program Director
Bevin McSorley - Saint Joseph's University Collegiate Recovery Specialist

• Press Release