NJ Gets Youth Substance Abuse Prevention Cash From Washington

The Garden State will get $625,000 in funding to support five New Jersey coalitions working to prevent substance abuse among New Jersey’s youth. The federal funding is administered by the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP).

U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) says “Drug-free environments are key to making sure our young New Jerseyans have the best chance to reach their fullest potential. From the classroom, to the school yard, to community centers, the more positive the influences are on our youth, the better equipped they will be to succeed.”

“This federal funding is an important investment in our state's most precious resources, our children,” says U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) who received the 2012 Congressional Leadership Award from the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America. “By working with organizations that are committed to a drug free environment, we can help ensure that New Jersey's young people are better prepared to succeed in the classroom and in their communities.”

The funding is awarded to community coalitions that facilitate the participation of community leaders, parents, teachers, religious organizations, health care professionals, the media, law enforcement and others in local drug prevention efforts.

Menendez says, “Funding the coalitions who have made the health, safety and future success of our youth a top priority is a critical investment in our children.”