Lawmakers from West Virginia and Virginia have teamed up to bring the Mountain State’s Handle With Care program to the rest of the nation.
U.S. Sens. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va.; Joe Manchin, D-W.Va.; and Tim Kaine, D-Va., introduced the Handle With Care Act to broaden what has been an important part of West Virginia’s fight against the substance abuse epidemic and the enormous damage it is doing to our state’s children.
A nationwide effort would authorize $10 million to establish five-year demonstration grants for states to address the effects of substance-use related and other trauma on children in public schools by building upon Handle with Care programs.
“Many of West Virginia’s youth look to their teachers and schools for guidance and protection — especially after experiencing a traumatic event,” Capito said.
“The Handle With Care program has been instrumental in helping young West Virginians cope with the negative effects they may be experiencing after a traumatic event. By preparing our teachers and schools, they will be able to better provide the necessary and appropriate support for students who need it the most,” Capito added.
Introduction of this plan is a testament to the work done by our state’s teachers, school administrators and law enforcement to protect children from this scourge. But while West Virginia has been among the hardest hit states, we are not alone. Kudos to our regional senators for hoping to pass along this important tool to others deep in the fight.
Members of both houses of Congress should approve the measure without delay.