The Rockville Centre Coalition for Youth was awarded a grant totaling $200,000 from the Nassau County Opioid Settlement Funds, providing $50,000 annually over four years.
The funding will support the coalition’s efforts to address substance misuse, expand youth prevention programs, and assist families affected by the opioid crisis in the Rockville Centre community.
The grant is part of Nassau County’s broader initiative to combat the opioid epidemic using funds obtained through legal settlements with opioid manufacturers and distributors. County officials have directed the settlement funds toward evidence-based prevention, education, and recovery programs at the local level.
“We are grateful for this support from Nassau County, which will allow us to expand our outreach and prevention programs for children, teens, and families,” said Ruthanne McCormack, the youth coalition’s project director. “
According to the coalition, the grant funding will be used to implement educational workshops for students and parents focused on opioid risks and prevention, expand youth leadership programs centered on substance misuse prevention, and conduct community-wide awareness campaigns highlighting opioid misuse and available local resources. The funding will also support collaboration with local schools, healthcare providers, and law enforcement agencies to strengthen prevention strategies.
The Rockville Centre Coalition for Youth has a history of providing advocacy, education, and community engagement programs aimed at promoting healthy choices and reducing substance misuse among young people. Its initiatives have been recognized for their impact on fostering resilience among local youth.
The funding comes as communities across Nassau County continue to face challenges related to opioid addiction and overdose. Coalition officials encouraged residents to participate in upcoming programs and to seek information about available support services.
