Community Corner

Enumclaw-Based Coalition Receives $125,000 in Federal Drug Prevention Funds

The Foothills Healthy Community Coalition, part of the Enumclaw Regional Healthcare Foundation, is one of 147 communities nationwide that will be receiving the grant money under the Drug-Free Communities Support Program.

The Office of National Drug Control Policy on Friday announced that Enumclaw-based Foothills Healthy Community Coalition is one of 147 communities nationwide that will be receiving federal grant money in support of substance abuse prevention efforts focused on youth.

The coalition, part of the Enumclaw Regional Healthcare Foundation, is receiving $125,000 as part of the Drug-Free Communities Support Program, according to a foundation press release. Coalition volunteers will match the grant dollars with in-kind resources totaling the entire grant to $250,000.

“We are not powerless against the challenge of drug use among young people here in Enumclaw,” said Rene’ Popke, Executive Director of the Enumclaw Regional Healthcare Foundation. “Research shows that prevention is the most effective tool we have to reduce the terrible consequences associated with drug use among young people. This new funding will allow Enumclaw Regional Healthcare Foundations  to help place more young people on the path toward success and enable them to live healthier and safer lives.”

The Foothills Healthy Community Coalition will specifically work to implement its action plan. FHCC members will take steps in the following areas: 

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  • Continue to conduct community outreach; 
  • Use training events which will advance the knowledge of coalition members to increase their ability to effectively address alcohol, marijuana and prescription drug abuse in the community; 
  • Identify key stakeholders needed to increase community collaboration; 
  • Work with local law enforcement agencies to effectively reinforce consequences when youth (under 21) are caught consuming alcohol; 
  • And to reduce access and increase barriers to youth using prescription medication that is not prescribed to them and  youth using marijuana.

“President Obama believes in the pursuit of an America built to last – a Nation with an educated, skilled workforce that has the knowledge, energy, and expertise to succeed in a highly competitive global marketplace,” said Gil Kerlikowske, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, who announced the total $19.8 million in new Drug-Free Communities Support Program grants Friday. “For too many young people, this future is clouded by drug use, which inhibits their ability to remain healthy and safe and to achieve their full potential. We congratulate this coalition on its work to raise a generation of young people equipped to remain drug free and ready to meet the challenges and successfully compete in the 21st century.”

Said Pamela S. Hyde, administrator for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: "The key to preventing substance abuse is harnessing the talents, resources, and interests of all segments of our local communities. America’s families, schools, places of worship, healthcare providers, community centers, and other civic organizations all play an essential role in helping our youth avoid illicit substance use."

For more information about the Office of National Drug Control Policy or the Drug Free Communities Support Program, visit: www.WhiteHouse.gov/ONDCP

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