UPDATE (April 2, 2025): As of 11AM EST on April 2nd we have identified the resources needed to continue all scheduled digital all recovery meetings are continued as regularly scheduled. Please be aware that disruptions may occur as the federal funding landscape situation evolves. All other service disruptions identified below are still in place.
Philadelphia, PA — April 1, 2025
Unity Recovery, a trusted leader in peer-led recovery and re-entry support services, has been forced to shut down critical programs in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh after the federal administration retroactively cut essential funding. These unexpected cuts have eliminated support for over 700 individuals and resulted in the loss of more than 20 staff positions.
“We didn’t choose this. These programs were shut down overnight — not by our community, but by a government decision that disregards public health and recovery,” said Dr. Robert Ashford, Executive Director, Unity Recovery.
Due to these retroactive federal funding cuts, Effective immediately:
• All digital recovery meetings are suspended
• New enrollment into peer recovery services is closed in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh while existing and interim services are prioritized for existing participants.
• In-person programs and activities are paused
• Drop-in services are discontinued in Philadelphia, only overnight drop-in services at Unity’s Southside Community Center in Pittsburgh will remain operational.
Currently, our re-entry programs and services in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are not impacted. In addition, our pregnant and parenting programs in Philadelphia are not impacted. All Texas services and programs remain fully operational at this time as well.
Unity Recovery is calling the cuts a manufactured public health emergency and is urging the public to take immediate action by contacting federal elected officials and the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP).
“These programs aren’t just services — they are lifelines. They’ve helped thousands reconnect with hope, community, and recovery. Ending them now is unconscionable.”
Call to Action:
Community members are encouraged to:
• Contact state and federal legislators
• Write to DDAP to tell them how important peer-based services offered in Pennsylvania are.
• Share stories and support publicly on social media
Unity Recovery remains committed to fighting for every individual impacted by substance use, mental health, and the justice system, and to restoring the services that have proven to save lives.
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About Unity Recovery: Unity Recovery is a peer-led nonprofit recovery community organization providing accessible, compassionate peer services across Texas and Pennsylvania. Learn more at www.unityrecovery.org.
