A COMMUNITY AGAINST SUBSTANCE ABUSE

33 Washington Street Toms River, New Jersey 08753 (732) 341-1000, ext. 8490 J. Masterson, Chairwoman Helen McGovern, Coordinator Office Hours Monday-Friday 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Toms River Township Municipal Alliance coordinates substance abuse prevention programs, activities, and events for community members in all age categories throughout the year. The Alliance often works in conjunction with the Toms River District Schools, the Township’s Department of Youth Services and Senior Center, as well as other agencies and organizations for the same purpose. The Alliance networks with numerous social service, health care, government, non-profit, and private agencies in its mission. Staff members provide information and referrals on substance abuse and related issues as they pertain to the age-specific and/or socio-economic needs of community members. Free age-appropriate literature addressing substance abuse issues is available at the Alliance office. Further, all programs, activities, and events directly sponsored by the Alliance are presented free-of-charge to participants.

The Alliance is funded by a grant from the New Jersey State Governor's Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (GCADA). The allotment is based on a formula derived from a variety of sources, including surveys, crime and population data, and hospital admissions. The monies come through the Ocean County Board of Health. Joanne Schuh, Director of the Ocean County Municipal Alliance Program, and her staff at the Board of Health monitors each of the County's local Alliance organizations through monthly reports and quarterly meetings.

The Toms River Township Municipal Alliance remains in compliance with strict mandates set forth by the State, County, and its own by-laws. Alliance Board members range from 19 to 70 years-old and represent a true cross section of the diverse community it serves. The Municipal Alliance office is located in Town Hall, 33 Washington St., on the building's lower level.  Board meetings are held the third Thursday of each month in Town Hall at 7 PM.