In a continued effort to tackle the state’s opioid crisis, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced nearly $1 million in new funding to expand local addiction prevention coalitions in high-need areas across New York. The announcement comes during National Substance Use and Misuse Prevention Month and coincides with Red Ribbon Week — a national campaign to raise awareness about the importance of drug prevention, especially among youth.
The funding, drawn from the state’s Opioid Settlement Fund, will support five community organizations that are working directly with youth, families, and local residents to prevent addiction before it starts. The initiative builds on a successful prevention program launched in early 2024.
Targeted prevention for high-risk communities
The latest $978,419 in funding will go to:
- Columbia-Greene Addiction Coalition – $200,000
- Council on Addiction, Prevention and Education of Dutchess County – $200,000
- Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County – $200,000
- Westchester-Ellenville Hospital, Inc. – $178,419
- Prevention Works in Chautauqua County – $200,000
These community prevention coalitions will continue to deliver services like educational programming, drug destruction kits, medication lockboxes, and drug take-back events through 2028.
“The best way to address addiction is to stop it before it starts”
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of proactive, community-level work in fighting the opioid crisis.
“This funding supports prevention services for New Yorkers in the areas that need it most,” she said. “It’s a reminder of the positive impact these services can have on individuals, families, and entire communities.”
Dr. Chinazo Cunningham, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), called prevention a vital part of the state’s care system.
“We work closely with our providers every day to make sure they have the funding and tools they need to reach people at risk for addiction,” she said.
A broader commitment to prevention and recovery
This funding is part of New York’s larger strategy to reinvest more than $2.5 billion in opioid settlement funds secured by Attorney General Letitia James. The state has already allocated over $454 million for prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction initiatives — more than any other state in the nation.
In honor of Red Ribbon Week, state landmarks were lit red on October 30, including One World Trade Center, the Empire State Plaza, Grand Central Terminal, Niagara Falls, and more — a symbolic gesture to keep prevention in the public eye.
Help is available
Anyone in New York who is struggling with addiction — or knows someone who is — can call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369) for free, confidential help.
A searchable directory of treatment and recovery programs is also available at the OASAS website.
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