Who We Are
“Hunterdon Safe Homes” was formed to address parents providing alcohol to minors in 2003. We developed the SAFE HOMES directory in Hunterdon County, where parents could identify themselves as parents committed to hosting alcohol-free gatherings for their teens. The SAFE HOMES directory is now online with more than 1000 members!
In 2009, with the resources from the federal Drug Free Communities grant, “Safe Homes” changed it’s name to the “Safe Communities Coalition” in order to widen our reach and add more drugs to our mission.
In 2011, the successful efforts of the Coalition expanded once again. “HOPE Project of Hunterdon/Somerset” merged with us, providing coverage of Somerset County as well.
Could you imagine what life would be like if Hunterdon and Somerset Counties were drug-free communities, free of the risks of underage drinking problems and drug abuse?
That is the goal of Safe Communities Coalition.
Promoting healthy lifestyles, supporting youth, young adults, and families in becoming more resilient and having stronger coping skills as the alternative to UAD and drug use.
What We Do:
- Adult and Youth Coalition Meetings
- Advocacy for Policy Changes
- Collaboration with Legislators, Law Enforcement, Parents and Businesses
- Community Events
- Community Prevention Programs
- Education: ‘Know the Law’
- Environmental Strategies to improve the health of our counties
- ‘Parents Who Host Lose the Most’ Campaigns
- Reliable Knowledge on Trends
- Safe Homes Directory
Success Stories:
- Private Property Ordinance enactment has increased from 8% to 33%.
- The first Permanent Prescription Drug drop off box was installed in Flemington, collecting over 500 pounds of Rx drugs since October 2011, therefore reducing availability on the street.
- Other successful campaigns such as ‘Know the Law’ partnered the Coalition with local liquor stores.
- A very active Youth Coalition has created PSAs for schools.
- The mobile truck advertises positive messages for teens, indicating that most kids DON’T drink.