Ocean, Burlington anti-drug groups win federal grants

WASHINGTON, DC - The leading organizations in Ocean and Burlington Counties in the struggle to keep kids free of addictions receive $125,000 each in federal grants to advance their efforts.

Ocean County's DART Coalition and Burlington County's Coalition for Healthy Communities were awarded Drug-Free Communities grants, according to details from the office of shore-based Congressman Tom MacArthur (R-3).

The funds support programs to help prevent substance abuse among youths, including liicit and illicit drugs, marijuana, tobacco and alcohol.

MacArthur said that it's critical for community organizations to have the resources they need to combat substance abuse.

"This year, the Bipartisan Heroin Task Force, which I co-chair, was able to successfully advocate against drastic budget cuts to the ONDCP so our communities could continue receiving these vital grants. This money ensures Burlington County's Coalition for Healthy Communities and Ocean County's DART Coalition can continue the life-saving work they do for the area."

The Drug-Free Communities Support Program is in its 20th year, directed by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.