The dedicated purpose of the funds is to reduce or eliminate the abuse of prescription and over-the-counter drugs as well as various inhalants.
“The Drug Free Communities grant will benefit our community through the expansion of services we have been able to offer in the past, plus new and innovative programs,” said program director Tanya Southerland. “We are delighted to have received this prestigious award, and are excited about the outcomes we will see in Bradley County.”
Prescription Drug and Over-the-Counter Drug Abuse has become one of the fastest-growing problems over the past few years. Through work with physicians, pharmacists, health agencies, and the general public, intense educational and preventive programs will be implemented. In addition, the problem of inhalant abuse will be addressed, particularly with and through our youth.
“These funds will go toward promoting a stronger, safer, healthier community for generations to come,” said Southerland.
“The funding is contingent upon the coalition matching the yearly award, either through direct or in-kind donations. These donations may include, but are not limited to, monetary donations, volunteer hours, donated and/or discounted professional services, and donated and/or discounted materials. As proponents of healthy and safe lifestyles for our community, we look forward to the expansion of the partnerships we have established over the years.”
For up-to-date information regarding events related to the Drug Free Communities grant, or to learn more about the GRAAB Coalition, visit www.graabcoalition.com, follow on Facebook, MySpace or Twitter (keyword “GRAAB Coalition”) or call 423-790-5568.
The Drug Free Communities program is directed by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, in partnership with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
The DFC program provides grants of up to $625,000 over five years to community coalitions that facilitate citizen participation in local youth drug prevention efforts including prescription drug diversion and prevention initiatives and underage drinking programs. Coalitions are comprised of community leaders, parents, youth, teachers, religious and fraternal organizations, healthcare and business professionals, law enforcement, and the media.
The DFC program was created by the Drug Free Communities Act of 1997, and was reauthorized by Congress in 2001 and 2006. Since 1998, ONDCP has awarded approximately 1,600 Drug-Free Communities grants to local communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, Palau, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands and, for the first time in FY 2010, the Federated States of Micronesia.
For more information about ONDCP and its programs visit: www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov.
The Office of National Drug Control Policy seeks to foster healthy individuals and safe communities by effectively leading the nation’s effort to reduce drug use and its consequences.
