ESD 112’s Prevent Coalition has been awarded a $97,634 grant from the Clark County Opioid Abatement Council to implement evidence-based opioid prevention strategies for youth. The one-year grant, effective July 1, 2024, marks a significant step in addressing the growing concern about opioid misuse among young people in the county.
Prevent, now in its 21st year, has a strong track record in substance abuse prevention, including cannabis, tobacco, and underage drinking. This grant allows the coalition to focus on opioid prevention, responding to increased demand from schools and community groups for resources on opioid misuse and fentanyl dangers.
“We are honored to receive this grant, which will significantly enhance our efforts in preventing opioid misuse among our youth,” said Joy Lyons, Assistant Director of Prevention Programs at ESD 112. “This funding enables us to expand our educational outreach and provide vital resources to schools and communities.”
The grant will fund:
- A public awareness campaign featuring storytelling and social media outreach
- Support for school districts in complying with House Bill 1230 on opioid prevention education
- Development of a regional webpage with substance use trends and prevention resources
- Training and facilitation of the Washington State Friends for Life campaign in middle and high schools
- Updates to the Locks Save Lives campaign promoting safe medication storage
This funding marks a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against opioid misuse in Clark County. The Prevent Coalition, alongside other grant recipients, is unwavering in its commitment to provide crucial resources and support to the community, ensuring that youth and their families receive the education and assistance they need to combat this crisis effectively.
About Prevent Coalition:
Supported by the fiscal agent ESD 112, Prevent Coalition is a community coalition formed in 2003 to increase collaboration, awareness, and reduce youth substance use in Southwest Washington. Prevent also implements initiatives for rural communities across Washington state. As a community mobilizer, we’re creating a culture promoting healthy choices; advocating for policies and regulations that protect, empower and nurture youth; and facilitating positive opportunities for youth to be involved and thrive. For more info, visit www.preventcoalition.org.