CFPC receives $70,408 grant

The Center for Prevention & Counseling (CFPC) has received a $70,408 grant from the Newton Medical Center community advisory board.

The funding will go to the “Prevention Works!” project, a comprehensive initiative to tackle concerns about youth substance use and mental health in Vernon, Sussex and Hopatcong.

“Prevention Works!” will provide students with evidence-based and research-proven methods to promote healthy decision-making, coping techniques to handle stress, and refusal skills to resist peer pressure.

The project also will educate key school staff on how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among children and adolescents ages 12 to 18.

“The rise in youth substance use and mental health struggles is a pressing issue in our communities,” said Tina Aue, director of prevention services at CFPC. “This grant allows us to directly impact the well-being of young people by equipping them with the tools they need to navigate challenges and build resilience.

“This comprehensive approach aims to create a network of support within the community, fostering a safe and healthy environment for young people to thrive.”