Jones Co. Coalition requests $10,000 of county supervisors

     Jennifer Husmann with the Jones County Safe & Healthy Youth Coalition (JCSHYC) met with the Jones County Supervisors during their Feb. 7 board meeting for her Fiscal Year 2024 update and financial request.

   The Coalition is requesting $10,000.

   "I want to thank you for the support you've given us over the years and continue to give," Husmann said.

   The Coalition's main focuses are:

   • Alcohol

   • Marijuana

   • Prescription drugs

   • Tobacco/vaping

   • Mental health

   Husmann shared that the latest data from 2021 shows that usage of drugs and substances has been trending down over the years, since the Coalition started.

   New to the Coalition is their focus on mental health.

   "We've been working on this for several years already," Husmann said, noting that substance abuse and mental health go hand-in-hand. "We've added it to our mission statement."

   The Coalition is working with Iowa State University on a grant to develop an assessment and plan for mental health needs in Jones County, as well as what's feasible in terms of services.

   On March 28, the Coalition is hosting an event at Monticello High School called "Project SAFE." Husmann said there will be a panel available to discuss suicide prevention. Prior to the event, there will also be a resource fair open to the public.

   "Kids will share their stories and talk about solutions," she said.

   The Coalition is also looking to partner with local chambers of commerce on the "Make It OK" mental illness campaign.

   "It's about reducing the stigma of mental health," Husmann said.

   The JCSHYC has been busy working on media campaigns for social media, billboards, and print advertising.

   Husmann noted that every pharmacy in Jones County, with the exception of Walmart, is participating in the prescription drug drop-off program, as well as the Monticello, Anamosa, and Jones County law enforcement agencies.

   "We need to keep opioids out of the reach of children," said Husmann.

   On Feb. 23, the JCSHYC's youth group BEAST will be attending the annual Day on the Hill at the Capitol in Des Moines.

   The Coalition continues to offer Responsible Beverage Service Training and compliance checks.

   "We're making sure businesses are not selling or serving to those underage," Husmann said. "We're placing more emphasis on businesses and the opportunity for diversion for those employees (who are cited)."

   In addition, there are quarterly trainings for both on- and off-premises serving.

   Husmann spends 75 percent of her time working for ASAC; 25 percent dedicated to the Coalition. She said the JCSHYC has had to more heavily rely on their board members and community volunteers to help carry out their mission.