Senator Menendez Announces More than $2 million to Fight Youth Substance Abuse

During a visit to Bloomfield High School’s counseling and recreation area, nicknamed, “the Den,” U.S. Senator Robert Menendez joined local leaders and students to announce $2.15 million in federal Drug Free Communities funds to support 19 community-based coalitions working to prevent youth substance abuse.

“I’m so pleased to be at The Den at Bloomfield High School where counselors help and recreational activities are available to keep our kids on the path to success,” Sen. Menendez said. “I will continue to fight to provide federal funding for drug abuse prevention initiatives that are working in keeping our communities drug free.”   

“The Den” at Bloomfield High School is run by Family Connections’ Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Team, which received a $125,000 grant.  One of 12 ADAPT locations throughout Essex County, the Den provides counseling and alternative recreational activities to help prevent teens from abusing alcohol or drugs. 

Bloomfield High School Principal Chris Jennings, Vice Principal John Pierce, Family Connections Executive Director Paula Sabreen, Family Connections Board President Nancy Davenport, Essex County Freeholder Brendan Gill and Bloomfield Mayor Raymond McCarthy joined Menendez.

Here is a breakdown of the grant awards, courtesy of the Senator's office.

New Grants

• Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Team ($125,000)
• Coalition for Healthy and Safe Communities ($125,000)
• The Garfield Prevention Coalition ($125,000)
• Prevention Coalition of Monmouth County ($125,000)
• Prevention Coalition of Mercer County ($125,000)
• Paterson Coalition Against Substance Abuse ($125,000)
• Join Together Atlantic County ($125,000)
• Burlington County Coalition for Healthy Communities ($125,000)
• Somerset County Safe Communities Coalition ($125,000)

Continuing Grantees

• Cumberland County Healthy Communities Coalition ($125,000)
• Vernon Coalition ($125,000)
• The Middlesex County Substance Abuse Coalition ($125,000)
• Hunterdon County Safe Communities Coalition ($125,000)
• Hudson County Coalition for a Drug Free Community ($125,000)
• Community Coalition for a Safe & Healthy Morris ($125,000)

Mentoring Grants                                  

• Coalition for Healthy Communities ($75,000)
• Hunterdon County Safe Communities Coalition ($75,000)
• Hudson County Coalition for a Drug-Free Community ($75,000)
• Community Coalition for a Safe & Healthy Morris-Pequannock TWP., NJ ($75,000)