Also in attendance for the Open House were President of the Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce and Prevention Resources Board Member, Chris Phelan, Field Representative from Congressman Kean’s office, Nicolas Henry, Prevention Resources Executive Director of Support Services, Meghan Moore, Prevention Resources Executive Director of Prevention Services, Erin Cohen, and Prevention Resources Board President, D.J. Wright.
This money was awarded to Prevention Resources as part of the grant program from State and Local Recovery Funds, received by Hunterdon County under the American Rescue Plan. Commissioner Lanza shared the following thoughts, “We received $1 million in grant funds from the American Rescue Plan, specifically structured to help nonprofit programs following the Covid pandemic. Prevention Resources came up with one of the largest grant awards because it is one of the most worthy grant applications. We are happy to present this check for $40,000 to increase outreach and education regarding fentanyl, which is a scourge that is killing people across the state at an alarming rate.”
At a March board meeting, County Commissioners announced the award of $1 million in grant funds as recommended by HFA Certified Public Accountants & Advisors for local non-profits who were on the front lines of responding to the COVID-19 Public Emergency Health Crisis and for those that experienced negative economic impacts as a result of the pandemic crisis. Prevention Resources was among several local non-profit and small business recipients that were awarded funds.
The monies from these grant funds will go towards increasing outreach and education about fentanyl, including the making of a new documentary titled “Fentanyl 2.0”, that will be available in both English and Spanish. Accompanying the release of the film will be a parent toolkit with facts, talking points, and helpful tips to guide the discussion about fentanyl for families. Grant money will also support the distribution of harm reduction supplies, including Narcan to reduce overdose deaths.
Deputy Director Susan Soloway said, “Funds used to produce the “Fentanyl 2.0” documentary will allow for Prevention Resource to increase information and prevention education efforts so that high school students across Hunterdon County can view this film. Presently, fentanyl claims the lives of six New Jersey residents daily.
This timely information is crucial in the effort to prevent further loss of life.” Commissioner Lanza concluded, “We know this money is headed toward a worthy cause and a worthy organization. And we on the County Commissioner Board know that this money is headed to the right place.”
Prevention Resources, Inc. is the longest standing prevention agency in Hunterdon County. Since 1971, they have cultivated healthy and drug-free communities by providing evidence-based programs and counseling, as well as engaging in policy advocacy and collaborative work, with a focus to empower the communities served by fostering dignity and wellness through quality programming and service.
Comments