Federal Funding for Prevention: Why It Matters for Rural Communities Like Ours

 

When people hear about federal prevention funding, it can sound distant or abstract, something that happens far away in Washington, D.C. For rural communities like Lemhi County, however, prevention funding has a direct and visible impact on everyday life. These investments shape what opportunities exist locally for youth, families, and schools and determine how early communities can act to reduce risk.

Federal prevention grants support the work of the Salmon Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition, allowing prevention to happen where it matters most, in schools, with families, and throughout the community. These funds help create consistent education, positive activities, and leadership opportunities that strengthen protective factors long before substance misuse becomes a crisis.

In Lemhi County, prevention funding has supported a wide range of family centered and youth focused activities. Events like the Whoville Family Dinner brought more than 250 community members together for a free meal, games, crafts, and positive connection in a welcoming and substance free environment. Other alternative activities, including movie nights, holiday events, and youth led outreach, provided safe and supervised spaces during times when risk is traditionally higher for young people.

Prevention funding also allows SSAPCO to show up at community events throughout the year. Outreach at merchant trick or treat, coffee shops during Red Ribbon Week, and fentanyl awareness activities brings prevention information directly to families in familiar and non judgmental settings. These efforts reinforce healthy norms, increase awareness, and keep prevention visible without relying on fear or crisis driven messaging.

For rural communities, this work is especially important. Limited access to services, longer emergency response times, and fewer treatment options mean prevention is often one of the most effective tools available. Federal prevention funding helps ensure that education, awareness, and positive alternatives are available consistently, not just after something goes wrong.

Just as importantly, prevention funding supports youth leadership and school partnerships. Through Drug Free Youth programs, students take active roles in classroom prevention education, peer outreach, and community engagement. These programs help normalize drug free living, build leadership skills, and empower young people to be part of the solution. Prevention efforts reach beyond students alone, shaping expectations and conversations among parents, caregivers, and the broader community.

In 2026, prevention funding will also support Lemhi County youth leaders as they travel to Washington, D.C. to attend the CADCA Leadership Forum. This national event brings together youth and adult coalition members from across the country to learn about effective prevention strategies, leadership development, and advocacy. Local youth will have the opportunity to represent Lemhi County, share rural perspectives, and learn how national prevention policy connects directly to local action. They will return home with skills, knowledge, and inspiration that strengthen prevention efforts here at home.

When prevention funding is strong, communities can invest in connection rather than reaction. Families gain access to safe activities, youth build confidence and leadership skills, and schools and community partners work together toward shared goals that support long term community health.

In Lemhi County, federal prevention funding does not just support programs. It supports people. It protects youth, strengthens families, and builds a healthier community for the year ahead and for generations to come.