Congressman Gallego Announces $124,929 Award for Maverick County Coalition Against Drugs to Prevent Youth Substance Use

Congressman Pete P. Gallego (TX-23) today announced that the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council for the Maverick County Coalition Against Drugs (MCCAD) has been awarded $124,929. The service area for the MCCAD includes Dimmit, Kinney, Maverick, and Val Verde Counties. The grant is part of a Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program and was awarded by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy in cooperation with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHS).

The Maverick County Coalition Against Drugs, as part of the Quad Counties on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, is trained to recognize symptoms of drug abuse, and works to provide intervention and counseling for alcohol, tobacco and use of other drugs.

“The best way to reduce the consequences of drugs? Don’t use them,” said Congressman Gallego. “Prevention is the most effective tool. This new funding will allow the Maverick County Coalition Against Drugs to help more young people live healthier lives. I congratulate the coalition for its work to ensure our young people remain drug free and live more productive lives.”

The Maverick County Coalition Against Drugs is one of 147 communities across the country to receive a DFC grant. The DFC Programs provides grants to community coalitions that are composed of community leaders, parents, youth, teachers, religious and fraternal organizations, healthcare and business professionals, law enforcement, and others working at the local level.

“The key to preventing substance abuse is harnessing the talents, resources, and interest of all segments of our local communities,” said SAMSHA Administration Pamela S. Hyde. “America’s families, schools, places of worship, healthcare providers, community centers, and other civic organizations all play an essential role in helping our youth avoid illicit substance use.