The Rockville Centre Coalition for Youth has been awarded a $200,000 federal grant to expand its substance misuse prevention programs and family support services over the next four years.
The funding, part of the Drug-Free Communities Support Program, will allow the coalition to hire additional staff, expand its school-based prevention curriculum, and launch new parent education workshops throughout the community.
"This grant allows us to reach more families before crisis hits. Prevention is always more effective than intervention." — Maria Santos, Coalition Director
The coalition has been working in Rockville Centre for over 15 years, partnering with schools, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community organizations to address youth substance use. Their evidence-based programs have been credited with reducing youth drinking rates in the village by 23% over the past decade.
New initiatives funded by the grant will include a peer mentorship program at South Side High School, monthly parent forums on recognizing warning signs, and expanded mental health resources for families.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman praised the award: "Organizations like the RVC Coalition are essential partners in our fight against addiction. This investment will save lives."