Tobacco and Substance Use Prevention Education in Schools Grant Program

The Albany County Legislature, in partnership with the Albany County Department of Health and the Albany County Executive’s Office, is offering a competitive grant opportunity focused on tobacco and substance use prevention education in schools. This initiative addresses rising concerns around the use of tobacco, vaping, and other substances among school-aged youth. The overarching goal is to fund programs that promote cessation, prevent initiation, and reduce secondhand exposure, while simultaneously supporting broader community health and educational engagement. A total of $100,000 has been allocated to support selected projects across Albany County. Eligible applicants include public school districts, charter schools, private individuals, non-profit organizations, and community-based organizations. Collaborative applications involving multiple entities are also encouraged. Grants of up to $20,000 will be awarded per project, based on the quality and scope of the proposals. Organizations that previously received funding may apply again if the proposed project expands beyond the services originally provided; however, preference is given to new applicants. Applications must demonstrate a clear benefit to the community and be focused on prevention strategies for tobacco and substance use, particularly among children and youth. Proposals must include several required components, including a signed Legislative Grant Acknowledgement Form by an authorized representative, an executive summary of the program, a breakdown of anticipated expenses, and a benefits statement related to reducing bullying or peer violence. Additionally, applications should detail how the program integrates into a broader curriculum and must include demographic tracking plans for participants. Applicants are expected to demonstrate their capacity to implement the proposed program effectively and in alignment with the County's public health priorities. Programs eligible for funding must offer at least one of several specific services, including direct education on tobacco use prevention and cessation, counseling services related to vaping and drug use, educator training, public awareness campaigns via social media, and activities aimed at eliminating health disparities or preventing youth access to tobacco products. All programs must align with evidence-based interventions and measurable impact. The application window for this grant is scheduled from February 2 to March 2, 2026. Award decisions will be made by a multi-agency review panel and announced at the beginning of the second quarter. Grant disbursements are fully reimbursable, with two reporting and reimbursement deadlines: early July and mid-September. Awardees must expend at least 35% of their funds by July and 100% by September. Applicants must comply with strict cost and documentation standards. Ineligible expenses include personnel compensation, operational overhead, and unapproved capital expenditures. Subcontracting is permitted only with prior legislative approval. All expenses must be allocable, reasonable, and consistent with Albany County’s financial guidelines. Final reporting will require certified documentation of expenditures and performance metrics. All inquiries should be directed to Grants.Legislature@albanycountyny.gov.

Align proposal with school curriculum; emphasize measurable impact; include detailed expense justifications.