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
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of youth haven’t used cannabis in the last 30 days.
%
of students report having a supportive adult in their lives.
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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
Ashland
Hudson
Marlborough
Natick
Northborough
Southborough
Westborough
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Youth Substance Use Prevention Resources
Community Events
View our Events Calendar to stay informed about workshops, training sessions, and wellness activities happening across Central MetroWest.
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📬 Hudson Health & Happenings – Issue #3 is here!
We’re excited to share the latest edition of the Hudson Health Department’s community newsletter!
Inside this issue, you’ll find:
✔️ Childhood vaccination clinic information
✔️ Heart Health info & blood pressure clinic dates
✔️ Postpartum support group details from MetroWest Shared Public Health Services
✔️ Food access resources & upcoming Food Summit from MetroWest Food Collaborative
✔️ Updates on the “Talk Early. Talk Often.” campaign from Central MetroWest Substance Awareness & Prevention Collaborative
✔️ Information about the upcoming Transfer Station public hearing
✔️ And much more!
Public health supports our community at every stage of life — and this newsletter is one way we stay connected and keep you informed.
📖 Read the full newsletter here: www.townofhudson.org/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/269
Please feel free to share with friends, family, and neighbors. Thank you for being part of a community that values health and wellness! 💙
Barrier #1: “I don’t know enough about cannabis to talk about it.”
Many parents feel unprepared because cannabis today isn’t what it used to be. Products are stronger, more widely available, and often marketed in ways that feel confusing or misleading. So it’s natural to worry that your child might ask a question you don’t know how to answer.
Try this instead: You don’t need to be an expert to be effective. What matters most is honesty, connection, and a willingness to learn together.
What you can say:
💬 “I may not know everything, but I care about your health and I want us to figure this out together.”
💬 “Let’s look it up together so we both have good information.”
This approach teaches a powerful lesson: curiosity and responsibility go hand in hand.
Talking with young people about cannabis is one of the most important things a parent or caregiver can do, but it’s also one of the hardest.
Many adults worry about saying the wrong thing, starting an argument, or pushing their child away. Others simply don’t know where to begin. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. Most families face barriers when it comes to discussing substance use, especially cannabis.
The good news? You can overcome every one of those barriers... and you don’t have to be an expert, have all the answers, or deliver a perfect speech. You just have to start the conversation.
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