$625,000 from Drug Free Communities Grant

Ohio County OCSAPC is among the 161 newly funded county coalitions across the country out of 417 applicants. $625,000 will be awarded over the next five years for prevention and reduction of alcohol, prescription drug and marijuana abuse and misuse. According to Gil Kerlikowske, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, "Evidence shows the communities receiving DFC funding have lower instances of youth using tobacco, alcohol and marijuana.

Our work begins anew! We couldn't be happier for Ohio County. Our accomplishments over the last five years havebeen gratifying and we plan to continue that same enthusiasm in the next five years.

Our state is spending so much money on many issues caused by substance abuse from legal to medical; we have the opportunity to get to the root of the problem. Prevent drug abuse and you save loads of money, emotional pain, and loss of young life. We can't afford it any more! We have an opportunity here to bring attention to the problem and offer solutions. Social Change takes time and without community commitment we would be no where. You help and support is the most valuable resource we have! Receiving money to help youth in our community is tremendous and when combined with the commitment and passion our community has for something better for our youth; real change is possible.

Actions speak louder than words

Parent Town Hall Meeting Challenge!

The Parent Town Hall Meeting takes place Sept. 22 at 12:30pm at Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Rd. The topic will be parents who play host to underage drinking parties. We have speakers lined up to address health and well-being issues surrounding youth consuming alcohol. Many parents who do host parties honestly believe it's safer for their teens. We want parents to explore what safer really means. We hope for honest, open discussion with opposing view points.

The challenge: If you see this posting and you feel strongly about this issue either way, please come to the meeting and BRING A FRIEND. Parents are a very dificult group to get together with work and children, but we could use your input on this issue. Let your community know you care about our youth.