Tester Announces Nearly $90,000 to Fight Substance Misuse in Sidney

Grant to provide peer-to-peer support, education programs aimed at curbing addiction

U.S. Senator Jon Tester today announced the Richland County Health Department has received a grant worth nearly $90,000 to prevent youth substance misuse.

Administered through the Drug-Free Communities Support Program, the grant will establish a youth subcommittee to provide peer-to-peer support for those struggling with substance misuse, and education programs to help prevent substance use among young people.

“Addiction affects families all across Montana, and children are often at high risk,” Tester said. “This grant will arm families with information, and give kids in Richland County the tools they need to fight back against substance abuse and have a real shot at success.”

Tester has sounded the alarm over the rising substance use epidemic in rural America. He secured more than $100 million for the Drug Free Communities Program as part of last year’s federal government funding bill, and has delivered millions for Montana’s treatment court programs.

Tester also recently introduced legislation to help fund substance misuse prevention and treatment initiatives at colleges and universities.

More information on Tester’s work to combat substance misuse is available HERE.