DENHAM SPRINGS — Livingston Parish SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) announced a $625,000 federal grant through the White House's Drug-Free Communities Support Program.

According to the organization, the grant will provide $125,000 each year through 2031 for a 5-year investment totaling $625,000. The group announced the award as schools and communities nationwide mark Red Ribbon Week and promote drug-free living.

The program said the funding will support community-driven and evidence-based strategies to prevent youth substance use, including alcohol, tobacco and other substances. The group said the work will reduce risk factors, strengthen protective factors, increase community collaboration and give young people the knowledge and support they need to make healthy choices.

"Red Ribbon Week reminds us that creating a drug-free future takes more than a week of awareness. It takes a community committed to supporting young people every day," Executive Director of LP SADD Dylan Ivy said.

LP SADD said the coalition may compete for another 5 years of funding after the initial period and with federal approval, which could bring the total investment to $1.25 million over 10 years. The Drug-Free Communities Act of 1997 created the program, and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy runs it in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"This grant allows us to build on the work already happening across our parish and strengthen our commitment to keeping our youth safe, healthy and substance-free," said an LP SADD official.