WATCH: First Lady Melania Trump on substance abuse prevention

October is National Substance Abuse Prevention Month. President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and the entire Trump Administration are committed to a nationwide effort to break the hold of addiction.

“This month, we pause to remember the lives lost to addiction, and recommit to protecting all Americans—particularly our nation’s young people—from the devastating effects drugs can have on them and their loved ones,” the President wrote in his proclamation.

To fight opioid misuse, a growing epidemic when President Trump took office, the President declared a Public Health Emergency in 2017 and signed the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act into law. His Administration also strengthened the Drug‑Free Communities program, which offers grants to prevent youth substance abuse.

Amid the global Coronavirus pandemic, it is especially important to be aware of how prolonged isolation can affect mental health and result in the misuse of both legal and illegal substances. Through community-based efforts, the Trump Administration is strengthening the support systems that keep our young people free from drugs—including helping more school districts safely return students to the classroom.

Read the Proclamation on National Substance Abuse Prevention Month

President Trump helps Gulf Coast prepare before Hurricane Delta makes landfall

President Trump has authorized emergency declarations for Louisiana and Mississippi this week, mobilizing FEMA in anticipation of Hurricane Delta. The storm is expected to make landfall in Louisiana tomorrow.

More than 5 million meals have been pre-staged by FEMA, as well as over 4 million liters of bottled water and 45 generators. Federal workers are assisting state and local officials to place resources near where Hurricane Delta is expected to make an impact.

The Trump Administration continues to support areas already affected during this hurricane season, as well. As Louisiana prepares for another storm, FEMA has awarded over $157 million in assistance to individuals in the state and paid more than $10 million for flood insurance claims following Hurricane Laura’s landfall in late August.

“I appreciate President Trump’s quick action on approving my request for a federal emergency declaration for Hurricane Delta,” Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards said.

Please visit Ready.gov for more information on hurricane preparedness.