HHS Center for Faith Director visits Idaho Falls to discuss addiction and homelessness support

Monty Burks, the Director of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Center for Faith, visited Idaho Falls to discuss how faith-based and private organizations can improve services for the homeless and those struggling with addiction and mental health.

During a community roundtable involving counselors, law enforcement, and local officials, Burks emphasized the historical role of houses of worship in providing housing, transportation, and recovery support. The discussion aimed to identify service gaps and strengthen existing community resources.

Burks, who previously founded Tennessee’s Certified Recovery Congregation Initiative, shared his personal history with addiction to highlight the importance of community-led support systems.