Community, Vision, Partnership

Since it's inception in 1986, the Woonsocket Task Force on Substance Abuse (WTFSA) has played a pivotal role in addressing the issue of substance abuse in the City of Woonsocket.

Formed originally as a group of volunteers studying the problem of substance abuse, the Task Force has evolved into an effective, organized coalition of community leaders representing all sectors of concern throughout Woonsocket with a clear and defined mission: to develop, implement, and advocate for effective community-based substance abuse prevention initiatives.

The WTFSA acts as a catalyst, pulling together a variety of public and private organizations to assist in the development of proactive efforts and strategies dealing with substance abuse prevention. During our twelve-year history, we have worked closely with the Mayor's office, the Woonsocket City Council, the Woonsocket Police Department, the Woonsocket Education Department, health organizations, private businesses, local and state officials, parent groups, and various city youth, substance abuse prevention, and treatment agencies. The results of this collaboration include a number of significant and successful community-wide public awareness efforts, and initiatives designed to effect legislation and policy and development. As a result, the WTFSA has assumed a leading role in finding effective ways to confront, contain, and reduce substance abuse in the city of Woonsocket.

Upcoming Meetings

January 8, 2003

February 12, 2003

March 12, 2003

April 9, 2003

May 14, 2003

June 2003

February, 2003 - (Youth Committee) - Tobacco Issues

March, 2003 - (Policy & enforcement) - Tobacco License Issues

April, 2003 - (Youth Committee) - Alcohol Awareness & Prom Season

May, 2003 - (Elderly Committee) - Older Americans Month/Med Compliance & Communication Issues

June 2003 (SACT) - Summer Substance Abuse Prevention

The Task Forceis beginning to plan for its next three-year substance abuse prevention plan, which will begin July 1, 2003.

The  WTFSA is currently constructing a community needs assessment regarding substance issues in the City of Woonsocket.  The results of this needs assessment will be available in January at the "Planning for the Future III" Forum.  Date, Time & Location to be announced.