What is the Drug-Free Community (DFC) grant program?

Q: What is the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) grant program?

A: The DFC grant is a federal program that helps local communities prevent youth substance use. It provides funding and support to help schools, families and community groups work together to create safe, healthy environments for kids. Research shows that students who feel connected to school and supported by adults are less likely to use drugs or alcohol. The DFC grant helps create these connections—both through education and through fun, meaningful activities that build a sense of belonging.

Q: Is the King Philip Regional School District part of this program?

A: Yes! King Philip Regional School District partners with the Healthy KP Substance Use Prevention Coalition. The coalition was formed in 2018 and received federal DFC funding in 2020.

Q: How is the Healthy KP Coalition using the grant?

A: It funds education, outreach, and events that help students stay connected and make positive choices. Examples include providing prevention resources and guest speakers for parents, supporting student events that build positive peer relationships, and partnering with schools on the diversion program, which helps students learn, reflect, and grow after substance-related incidents.

Q: Who is involved in the coalition, and how is it structured?

A: Each DFC-funded coalition must include representatives from 12 required community sectors, ensuring a broad and balanced approach to prevention. These sectors are: youth, parents, business community, media, schools, youth-serving organizations, law enforcement, religious or faith-based organizations, civic and volunteer groups, health care professionals, state/local government, and other organizations involved in reducing substance use. In addition to its sector representatives, the Coalition includes a full-time coordinator, a Steering Committee and engaged community members who help guide and support its work.

Q: What’s next for the Healthy King Philip Coalition?

A: The coalition has applied for a continuation of the DFC grant to keep this work going for another five years. If awarded, the funding will allow even more support for prevention programs in the district. The community will find out in September whether the new funding has been approved.

Q: How can I get involved?

A: The coalition welcomes new members! Whether you’re a parent, student, business owner, or just someone who cares, your voice matters. Visit healthykp.org for more information or reach out to [email protected] for updates on coalition meetings, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support local prevention work.

Please email your questions to [email protected]. Your questions will remain confidential and anonymous. Formed in 2018, Healthy KP is a community-based group of volunteers from the tri-town communities working together to prevent and reduce the use of alcohol, drugs and nicotine/tobacco products among our youth. In December of 2020, Healthy KP was awarded a Drug-Free Communities (DFC) grant allowing the coalition to strengthen community collaboration and engagement to prevent and reduce substance use among youth. By implementing evidence-based prevention programs, strengthening partnerships and building connections through community events, Healthy KP has made progress in reducing rates of youth use. For more information, visit www.healthykp.org.