The Department of Prevention & Human Services is excited to announce that the Town of Ashland was recently awarded a SAMHSA STOP Act grant to help prevent and reduce alcohol use among youth and young adults ages 12-20. 

 STOP is a competitive grant which involves a comprehensive application process. Only 35% of this year’s grant submissions were funded. Formally known as the Sober Truth on Preventing Underage Drinking Act Grant, the funding award - $240,000 over four years - will assist Decisions at Every Turn (DAET) with addressing norms regarding alcohol use among youth; reducing opportunities for underage drinking; and reducing negative consequences associated with underage drinking. Further, the STOP project will elevate efforts to develop strategies to support students who are at a greater risk for alcohol use and misuse. 

As part of the 4-year STOP Strategic Plan, DAET will prioritize Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and conduct an audit of its processes and programs; implement a community-wide alcohol prevention campaign; build prevention capacity among stakeholders and residents; deliver student and adult prevention education; and look at policy as a protective factor for preventing alcohol use.

There will be opportunities for public involvement! These initiatives will welcome (and require!) parent, caregiver and other community adult participation in a variety of ways including focus groups, volunteer working groups, listening sessions, and more. Prevention requires local solutions - and you are the experts on what we need as a community to keep our kids and teens safe and healthy.

Watch for more information on how to get involved soon. You can also email Kristin French at [email protected] to express your interest.