KNOX COUNTY – The Knox Substance Abuse Action Team (KSAAT) presented the Mount Vernon Police Department’s PAK (Police and Kids) United Program with a $5,000 check on Thursday, May 25. The donation will support the ongoing efforts to engage local youth in fun activities to build relationships between law enforcement and youth. Since its inception in 2021, PAK United has hosted kickball, bowling, softball, dodgeball and movie night events reaching hundreds of local students. 

According to SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration), effective prevention focuses on strengthening protective factors to reduce the likelihood of substance use. 

“KSAAT is dedicated to preventing and reducing substance abuse among youth,” KSAAT’s coordinator, Tina Cockrell from Knox Public Health, said. “PAK United is a unique program strengthening protective factors by building trust between youth and law enforcement, connecting students to their community, increasing self-esteem and providing a positive environment for social interaction with peers.”

KSAAT was formed in 2011 in response to community concerns about substance abuse. The coalition is comprised of concerned parents, community leaders, teens, local organizations, the recovery community and more. KSAAT is funded through the CDC’s Drug Free Communities grant and is coordinated by Knox Public Health. To learn more about how to get involved, visit KSAAT.org.