Mass. Receives Federal Grant To Help Pregnant Women Battling Addiction

State health officials say Massachusetts has received a federal grant to treat pregnant women who are addicted to opioids.

Gov. Charlie Baker says the funding will help save the lives of women and their children.

The state Department of Public Health was awarded the funding as part of the Moms Do Care project, which also includes other state agencies, hospitals and nonprofit organizations.

The program helps identify pregnant women who may need medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction and other support and recovery services.

U.S. Rep. Katherine Clark cited a recent surge in the number of newborn babies who are showing symptoms of opioid withdrawal.

Massachusetts was one of 11 states awarded grants by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.