JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department announced Friday that its Coordinated Opioid Recovery Program (CORE) has been recognized as one of the top 10 performing recovery networks in Florida for Fiscal Year 2025-26.
The designation includes a $64,000 award from Lutheran Services Florida to supplement ongoing care for individuals facing opioid use disorder.
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The Coordinated Opioid Recovery Program is part of a statewide initiative in Florida to create a comprehensive system of addiction care. Rather than relying solely on traditional treatment methods, the program places care coordinators and peer navigators directly in emergency departments.
Participants receive medication-assisted therapy and long-term wraparound services designed to interrupt the cycle of addiction.
Much of the program’s success reflects the leadership of Capt. Brielle Barnhill and the dedication of the JFRD CORE team. Her work, alongside consistent reporting to Lutheran Services Florida, helped ensure the department’s efforts were recognized at the state level.
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Barnhill highlighted the impact of the initiative. “I truly believe CORE is one of the most powerful things JFRD has done outside of the fire station,” Barnhill said. “We’re meeting people where they are, removing barriers to care and helping them find their road to recovery. We’re incredibly grateful for this recognition and the additional funding, which will allow us to continue this work and help even more people in our community.”
Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department Director and Fire Chief Percy Golden II noted that the funding will bolster ongoing assistance for community members in need. “Every family touched by opioid use disorder deserves a path back to stability and this program helps make that possible,” Golden said. “This award is a reflection of the trust our community and our partners have placed in JFRD and it will directly strengthen the support we’re able to offer those who need it most.”
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The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department serves more than 1 million residents across 840 square miles of Duval County. The department employs 1,900 personnel operating out of 71 stations and responds to more than 100,000 calls annually for fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents and technical rescues.
Residents seeking information regarding the CORE program can call 904-575-0503 or email JFRDCORE@coj.net.
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