Clay County, along with many other counties, has an ongoing challenge with the use of drugs such as methamphetamine, oxycodone, heroin and other various prescription drugs. Many of the arrests in Clay County are drug related, which calls for a need for intervention and continued substance abuse prevention programs. Drug prevention was also a reoccurring response when conducting the community needs assessment.

FCS, 4-H and Agriculture Agents partnered with Clay County Middle School, 14 local organizations and 38 volunteers to host Truth and Consequences. The program is designed as a scenario based activity to provide information about physical, legal, financial and emotional consequences when using drugs. 175 students completed the program and had the opportunity to listen to testimonies provided by Chad’s Hope- an addiction recovery center.

Evaluations results:

 96% stated they developed a better understanding of the legal consequences of substance abuse.

92% stated they now understand the health consequences of substance abuse.

95% stated they understand emotional consequences of substance abuse.

96% know where to go in the community to get help.

Participant comments:

“I was amazed by the funeral expense.”

“Drugs can really destroy your life.”

“Visiting the hospital is very expensive.”