Grants to help groups fight prescription abuse by teens - KOAM TV 7

Grants to help groups fight prescription abuse by teens

A Joplin area coalition receives funding to combat substance abuse issues.

The U.S. Department of Education awarded the Alliance of Southwest Missouri two grants worth almost $5,000 each.

The money will be used in Jasper County to educate teens on prescription and over-the-counter drug abuse.

In Newton County, more programs will teach teens about alcohol abuse.

Workers with the Alliance of Southwest Missouri say the grant money is greatly needed.

"Without the grants we wouldn't be able to provide the media advertising for some of our take back events, which is giving the community members the education on the dangers of prescription drugs and also underage drinking," says Melissa Schneider of the Alliance of Southwest Missouri.  "We wouldn't be able to have as much of an impact in the community without these grants."

The grant money will also help establish a permanent drop-off box at the Joplin Police Department where people can take their unused prescription medications.