(CALUMET COUNTY, WI, September 20, 2023 — REACH is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a five-year extension of the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Grant. This continuation funding will enable the coalition to continue its vital work in preventing substance misuse and fostering a healthier, safer community for the foreseeable future.
The DFC Continuation Grant, administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is a highly competitive federal grant program that supports community-based coalitions across the nation in their efforts to reduce substance misuse among youth and promote substance-free lifestyles. REACH has been a recipient of this prestigious grant since 2018.
This renewal of the DFC funding is a testament to the exceptional dedication and impact of REACH in Calumet County. Over the past five years, the coalition has made significant strides in addressing the root causes of substance misuse, providing education and resources to local youth, and fostering a community environment that prioritizes prevention and well-being.
The five-year extension of DFC Continuation Funding will allow REACH Coalition to continue:
Youth Engagement Programs: REACH has established innovative programs that actively engage local youth in substance abuse prevention efforts. Through workshops, leadership development, and community events, youth in Calumet County are empowered to make informed choices and lead substance-free lives.
Community Education Campaigns: The coalition has launched impactful public education campaigns targeting parents, schools, and community members. These campaigns raise awareness about the dangers of substance misuse and provide resources for those in need of support.
Youth Access Prevention: REACH conducts regular tobacco and alcohol age compliance checks in partnership with local retailers, businesses and law enforcement. These checks ensure that retailers are not selling tobacco or alcohol products to underage individuals, and celebrate our partners in prevention. REACH also provides free tools to monitor, secure and dispose of medication and alcohol at home to all in Calumet County.
REACH expresses its deep gratitude to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for their ongoing support and trust in our mission. We are also grateful for the dedication of our community partners, volunteers, and stakeholders who have played a crucial role in our success.
This funding renewal marks a significant milestone for REACH, and we are eager to continue working diligently to create a community where substance misuse is a thing of the past. Together, we can make a difference and provide our youth with the opportunity to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
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About REACH
Calumet County's substance misuse prevention coalition, REACH, focuses on reducing alcohol, nicotine and other substance misuse to protect the health, safety and quality of life for all, especially children. www.cahlinc.org/about/reach
About DFC
The Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program is the nation’s leading effort to mobilize communities to prevent and reduce substance use among youth. Created in 1997 the DFC program provides grants to community coalitions to strengthen the infrastructure among local partners to create and sustain a reduction in local youth substance use.