Catholic Charities Counseling and Adoption Services (CCCAS) is proud to announce that we have been awarded funding through the Erie County Drug and Alcohol Grant, supported by Opioid Settlement funds. This critical funding, which runs now through June 30, 2025, allows CCCAS to provide much-needed substance abuse education to students at Cathedral Preparatory School and Mother Teresa Academy.
Addressing a Growing Public Health Concern
Youth substance abuse continues to be a significant public health crisis. Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NDA) shows that at least 1 in 8 teenagers have abused an illicit substance in the past year. In Pennsylvania, over 66,000 adolescents aged 12 to 17 reported drug use in the past month, with opioid-related overdose deaths among teens rising at an alarming rate. These statistics highlight the urgent need for preventative education to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to resist substance use.
A Collaborative Approach to Prevention
Through this initiative, CCCAS is partnering with Cathedral Prep and Mother Teresa Academy to fill a crucial gap in substance abuse education. While public schools in Erie County have received resources for drug prevention education, many private schools have lacked access to such programs. This grant allows us to bring evidence-based prevention education into these school communities, providing students with the tools they need to make informed decisions about substance use.
Evidence-Based Curriculum for Lasting Impact
CCCAS will implement two nationally recognized, evidence-based curricula tailored to different age groups:
- Safety First – Designed for high school students, this program delivers factual information on substances such as alcohol, opioids, fentanyl, psychedelics, and other drugs, focusing on harm reduction and responsible decision-making.
- Botvin LifeSkills Training Program – A premier curriculum for middle school students, this program equips young adolescents with the skills needed to resist drug, alcohol, and tobacco use while promoting positive youth development.
Both programs are aligned with National Health Education Standards and social-emotional learning (SEL) competencies, ensuring that students receive comprehensive education on substance misuse prevention.
Engaging Parents in the Prevention Effort
Recognizing the vital role parents play in prevention, CCCAS will offer opportunities for parental involvement, including focus groups, planning meetings, and resource distribution. Educated and empowered parents serve as the first line of defense in preventing illicit drug use among youth, and our program seeks to equip families with the tools to have meaningful conversations about substance use.
Measuring Success and Ensuring Sustainability
The effectiveness of this initiative will be measured through student surveys, focus groups, and school-based tracking of behavioral and academic outcomes. By working closely with school administrators and community stakeholders, CCCAS aims to create a lasting impact that extends beyond the grant period.
To ensure sustainability, CCCAS is actively pursuing additional funding sources and exploring long-term partnerships with local schools and organizations. The agency remains committed to providing ongoing education and support to help reduce substance abuse rates among Erie County’s youth.
A Beacon of Hope for the Future
Project Lighthouse, as this initiative is called, represents a beacon of hope in the fight against youth substance abuse. By delivering essential education and fostering strong community partnerships, CCCAS is taking a proactive approach to ensuring a healthier future for our young people.
For more information about this initiative or to learn how you can support CCCAS’s mission, please navigate to the contact page on our website. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of Erie County’s youth.