On the recordMay 22, 1997
I have witnessed firsthand the devastation that this causes in our communities, the devastation of lives and the crime that comes along with it. I have worked on the streets so I know firsthand of what I am speaking. I also found the best way to solve the problem was through local organizations, groups that came together who really could work together, who knew what the problem was and could best solve it at the local level, not with the Federal Government dictating to them but giving the options of them knowing how best to do it. The Drug-Free Communities Act of 1997 encourages that local community involvement to solve the problems by forming these coalitions. I have always said we at home know best how to solve our problems and we know best how to achieve success. The most successful substance abuse programs do have coalitions of churches and religious organizations involved.
Source
govinfo.gov
