Needham Gets Grant to Combat Underage Drinking, Drug Use

Needham has been awarded a state grant to combat underage drinking and drug use. The nearby towns of Dedham, Norwood and Westwood will also benefit from the grant.

The grant will be worth $300,000 over the next three years, WickedLocal.com reports. There will be a possibility to renew the grant for four additional years at a cost of $400,000.

Of the four towns, Needham was the leading applicant, therefore they will be in charge of hiring prevention specialists to strengthen the fight against substance abuse.

“Needham has a reputation as a state leader in the field of substance abuse education and prevention, and it’s a well-founded reputation in my opinion,” Needham Public Health Director Timothy McDonald said.