COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) _ State officials have awarded $2.5 million in grants to expand housing for Ohioans recovering from drug and alcohol problems.

Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services officials say that brings the state's investment in recovery housing to $12.5 million over three years. The grants will go to 25 projects in 18 counties, adding a total of about 200 new beds.

Agency Director Tracy Plouck says the housing provides a safe, supportive environment to help those in recovery adjust to sobriety, get jobs and seek permanent housing.

Another $2.5 million in grants will be released the next fiscal year.

The agency says studies have shown that people who live in recovery housing have a significantly better chance of staying clean and sober after two years than those in other environments.