FIGHT AGAINST DRUGS FUNDED

A local drug-prevention program for First Nation youth is receiving a
$1,000 boost from the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police.

The money, donated through the Substance Abuse Grant Program, will
help fund the First Nations Racing Against Drugs program scheduled to
take place in Kettle Point in late September.

"It's a really great program and the kids always look forward to it.
I'm always so grateful for the help," said Danie McLean, the
drug-abuse prevention co-ordinator at Kettle Point.

The three-day event, which is in its 12th year, will see some 600
children from six different Ontario First Nations groups participate.
The youth will travel from booth to booth -- known as pit stops --
where they learn about everything from drugs and alcohol to Internet
safety and nutrition.

Luke George, an OPP officer with the Integrated Support Services Unit,
runs a workshop on respect at the event.

"The pit stops are just information they need to know, and the kids
are always attentive . . . My booth teaches the kids respect: Respect
for their elders, for the earth, and most importantly, respect for
themselves," he said.

The program is designed for students in Grades 5 to
7.

"Some of them come back year after year. It builds community and
friendship," McLean said.

McLean, who spent time strung out on hardcore drugs on the streets of
Toronto before breaking his addiction more than 20 years ago, said the
initiative was integral in tackling the "out-of-control drug problem"
that affects many First Nations communities.

"It opens a line of communication," he said. "The young people get so
much out of it, I hope the support never ends."

The funding for the grant was donated by A&P, Dominion and Food Basic
grocery stores throughout Ontario, which raised the money through the
sale of the magazine "Not for Adults."