Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, R-Willsboro, last week applauded White House Drug Policy Office awards to organizations in Massena and Akwesasne.

The Seaway Valley Council for Alcohol and Substance Abuse is to receive $125,000 under the program, and the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Akwesasne Coalition for Community Empowerment is also getting $125,000.

These grants will provide local community coalitions with funding to prevent youth substance abuse, including prescription drugs, marijuana, tobacco, and alcohol abuse, according to the announcement from Stefanik’s office.

“This needed funding will help combat illicit drug use and make our communities healthier,” Stefanik, a Republican, said in a prepared statement. “As a Member of the Bipartisan Heroin Task Force, I applaud the White House for making this funding in our district a priority. I will continue to work in Congress to combat addiction and ensure that our communities have the resources they need in this fight.”