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The ONDCP simultaneously released grants to 473 currently funded Drug-Free Community coalitions and 4 DFC mentoring continuation coalitions, totaling more than $19.8 million.
Coalitions are composed of community leaders, parents, youth, teachers, religious and fraternal organizations, healthcare and business professionals, law enforcement, the media, and others working together at the local level.
“President Obama believes in the pursuit of an America built to last – a nation with an educated, skilled workforce that has the knowledge, energy, and expertise to succeed in a highly competitive global marketplace,” ONDCP director Gil Kerlikowske said in a statement. “For too many young people, this future is clouded by drug use, which inhibits their ability to remain healthy and safe and to achieve their full potential. We congratulate this coalition on its work to raise a generation of young people equipped to remain drug free and ready to meet the challenges and successfully compete in the 21st century."
PACT will specifically work to address prevention of alcohol and marijuana use, the two most commonly used substances by Pelham’s youth. With nearly 2 of every 5 tenth grader reporting using alcohol and more than 1 of every 10 tenth grader reporting using marijuana, a continued comprehensive drug and alcohol prevention program remains PACT’s priority.
Initiatives targeting youth development, parental engagement and community awareness and involvement are included in this year’s action plan.
Click here to find out more about PACT and like them on Facebook. Contact Virginia Hartmere, Coalition Director, at pelhampact@gmail.com to get involved with PACT and work with fellow community members to encourage youth to make healthy, safe and substance free choices.
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