The expansion of faith-based partnerships with government.

Social service partnerships between faith-based organizations and federal, state, and local government have been established for several decades; however, they have experienced significant expansion and increased support in recent years. These partnerships have long centered on helping individuals cope with issues of substance abuse and mental health, as well as overcoming other addictive behaviors, and establishing positive life practices for self-sufficiency. These partnerships are rather old in nature but relatively new in scope and focus bringing a myriad of resources into the public square as well as opportunities for additional research on their efficacy.