The goal of the Massachusetts Drug Supply Data Stream (MADDS) is to learn more about the local illicit drug supply to better inform public health and public safety responses. MADDS is a state-funded collaboration between Brandeis University researchers, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, various town police departments and local community partners. Piloted in 2019 in Boston and New Bedford, MADDS currently partners with New Bedford, Quincy, Lynn, Boston, Greenfield, and Berkshire County communities, with new sites coming on board across the state. MADDS is part of the state’s responses that align with the Harm Reduction Commission’s recommendations. 

MADDS has an Advisory Board that convenes regularly to review drug trends, recommends actions in response to data, and advises on how and to whom communications are indicated. The Board's membership represents the expertise and knowledge to best inform the work of MADDS: harm reduction organizations, analytic chemistry, and lived and living experience using and supplying drugs. 

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MADDS is funded by grants from the Centers for Disease Control, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services. To Learn more about MADDS and specimen collection view our onboarding video.