From Specific Appropriation 719 in the FY 2025-2026 General Appropriations Act, $1,200,000 from…

The Florida Department of Corrections has awarded contract C799F5 for the Certified Peer Specialist Gateway Pilot Program, effective July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, with a contract value of $1.2 million. Funding is derived from the Inmate Welfare Trust Fund pursuant to Specific Appropriation 719 of the FY 2025-2026 General Appropriations Act. The program will be implemented at participating Department of Corrections facilities and is designed to train select returning citizens to become Certified Recovery Peer Specialists (CRPS) in accordance with Section 397.417, Florida Statutes. The contract manager is Paul Van Gunda.

The primary deliverables include comprehensive training in recovery skills, assistance with credential applications and examination preparation in collaboration with the Florida Certification Board (FCB), which administers the CRPS credential. Additionally, the contractor will provide job readiness and employment assistance services to support participants in securing and maintaining employment within the behavioral health field. Certified Recovery Peer Specialists utilize personal experience and professional training to provide peer recovery support to individuals addressing substance use and mental health conditions. The program aims to facilitate successful reentry and employment outcomes for participating returning citizens within the behavioral health sector.