On October 26, 2004, the United States Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy G. Thompson announced 21 grants totaling $230 million over five years to implement the Strategic Prevention Framework State Incentive Grants. New Hampshire's Strategic Prevention Framework (NH SPF) Program is part of this nationwide initiative to improve the quality and effectiveness of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use and abuse prevention services. Funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the SPF Program's goals are twofold: - To build prevention capacity and infrastructure at the State and community level.
- To prevent the onset and reduce the progression of substance abuse across all age groups, including childhood and underage drinking, and to reduce substance abuse-related problems in towns and communities.
The Framework follows a sustainable five-step process laid out by SAMHSA: - conduct needs assessments;
- build state and local capacity;
- develop a comprehensive strategic plan;
- implement evidence-based prevention policies, programs and practices; and
- monitor and evaluate program effectiveness.
The SPF is highly data driven, and is therefore dependent upon access to quality data that spans not only fields directly related to substance abuse, but also complementary fields of expertise, such as domestic violence, eldercare, early childhood supports, etc. The program works closely with agencies and individuals in these fields and many others, at both the State and local level, to ensure the creation of a comprehensive, well-rounded Strategic Plan that is culturally competent and sustainable, and that will be effective across all demographics. NH Prevention Networks Map (pdf -1page) | 
