Central MetroWest Substance Awareness & Prevention Collaborative

Uniting communities through connection and collaboration to prevent youth substance use and misuse, foster a culture of wellness, and ensure every young person has the support they need to thrive.

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%

of youth haven’t vaped or used alcohol in the last 30 days

%

of youth haven’t used cannabis in the last 30 days.

%

of students report having a supportive adult in their lives.

%

of kids who learn about the risks of drugs are less likely to use.
mother and daughter browsing on a laptop together

Uniting Communities through Connection & Collaboration

Whether you’re a parent or caregiver, or youth looking for guidance, an educator seeking resources, or a community member eager to create change, CMSAPC brings seven communities together to build a healthier, united region.

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    Support for parents, caregivers, and youth

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    Educational resources for educators

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    Community health and prevention programs

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    Opportunities to lead local change

Explore Our Local Coalitions

Get to know the community coalitions that make up CMSAPC. These dedicated groups share in our mission and work to craft prevention strategies suited to their community’s unique needs.

Ashland

Hudson

Marlborough

Natick

Northborough

Southborough

Westborough

View All Communities

Youth Substance Use
Prevention Resources

Want to make a real impact? Our resources are your playbook for building healthier habits for community youth and your family.

Community Events

View our Events Calendar to stay informed about workshops, training sessions, and wellness activities happening across Central MetroWest.

Latest Past Events

Follow Us & Join the
CMSAPC Online Community

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Today we remember the lives lost to overdose, acknowledge the grief of the families, friends, and communities left behind, and stand with those whose lives have been impacted by substance use.
Every life matters. Every loss counts.

International Overdose Awareness Day is also a reminder of the importance of prevention, education, reducing stigma, and having honest conversations about substance use. Together, we can help create communities where people feel supported, informed, and able to ask for help.

For regional youth substance use prevention information and resources, visit CMSAPC.org.

#InternationalOverdoseAwarenessDay #IOAD2026 #EndOverdose #overdoseawareness #PreventionWorks SubstanceUsePrevention CMSAPC EveryLifeMatters
...

Today we remember th

Earlier this month, Governor Maura Healey’s administration announced emergency action restricting the sale of kratom products in Massachusetts. With kratom and highly concentrated products like 7-OH receiving increased attention, it’s important to understand what these substances are and the potential risks associated with them.

Kratom comes from the leaves of a tree native to Southeast Asia and can produce stimulant-like or opioid-like effects. Products sold today can vary significantly in strength and ingredients, and concentrated 7-OH products may carry particularly serious risks, including addiction, dependence, and withdrawal.

This graphic from the MetroWest Shared Public Health Services breaks down what kratom is, how products can differ, potential health risks, and what the new Massachusetts restrictions mean.

Being informed is an important part of prevention. Please share this information with others in your community who may find it helpful.

🔗 Learn more at mass.gov/kratom

#CMSAPC #Kratom #7OH #PublicHealth #Prevention #Massachusetts #SubstanceUsePrevention
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Earlier this month,

🧠 Did you know? The brain learns through repetition.
When it comes to talking with young people about cannabis and other substances, one big conversation isn’t the goal. Regular, age-appropriate conversations over time can help reinforce healthy messages, build trust, and make it easier for teens to come to a trusted adult with questions.
Start early. Keep talking. Small conversations can make a difference. 💬
Learn more and find resources for parents and caregivers at cmsapc.org.
#TalkEarlyTalkOften #CMSAPC #PreventionWorks #ParentResources #YouthPrevention HealthyChoices
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🧠 Did you know? T