The Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District (JPASD) was awarded a $172,571 Project Grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) under the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Projects of Regional and National Significance (CFDA 93.243) program. The grant funding will support comprehensive training initiatives focused on narcotic overdose response and mental health awareness for JPASD personnel serving the Jonesboro, Louisiana area. JPASD aims to enhance emergency medical services and ensure equitable access to high-quality care for the diverse population of Jackson Parish, which has a median household income of $26,378 and a poverty rate of approximately 20.4%. The grant project period runs from September 30, 2024 through September 29, 2026.