(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine announced today that he is awarding more than $3 million in grant funds to a number of law enforcement agencies across the state for drug use prevention education programs in public schools.
A total of 152 sheriffs’ offices and police departments will receive a portion of the $3,098,808 in Drug Use Prevention Grant funds announced today. The funds must be used to establish or maintain drug abuse prevention education and awareness programs for students during the 2018-2019 school year.
Grant recipients are required to include over-the-counter and prescription drug abuse prevention education in their programs.
“Age-appropriate substance abuse prevention education every year, at every grade level is key,” said Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine. “Evidence-based prevention education helps students develop the skills they need to make good decisions, stay drug-free, and live healthier lives.”
A full list of the 152 award recipients can be found on the Ohio Attorney General’s website.
D.A.R.E. programs and school resource officer drug use prevention programs were eligible to apply for the grants. All programs must be conducted in cooperation with the public school superintendent of each school district where the programming will take place.
The Drug Use Prevention Grant Fund supports programs such as Botvin LifeSkills, D.A.R.E. Keepin’ It REAL, PALS – Prevention through Alternative Learning Styles, Unique You, Too Good For Drugs, Reach Out Now, and Stay on Track.