Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I, D, WF, WE – Sag Harbor) applauded Governor Andrew M. Cuomo for including Human Understanding Growth Services, Inc. (HUGS, Inc.) in the $2.65 million funding awarded to expand and develop non-traditional addiction treatment support services in each of the State’s ten economic development regions that was announced on March 31st. HUGS, Inc., a not-for-profit community-based youth organization located in Westhampton Beach that is dedicated to alcohol and drug prevention and runs educational and recreational programs for middle and high school youth, was selected to receive an award of $100,000. This funding will be used to support the establishment of community coalitions that will coordinate community resources to help address substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts that meet localized needs and foster cross-sector collaboration.

“I am pleased that the Governor selected HUGS, Inc. for this award,” said Assemblyman Thiele. “Substance abuse and addiction is a problem in communities across the State and here on Long Island’s east end. This funding will assist HUGS, Inc. in their efforts to increase access to vital services for those who need help in beating addiction.”

The funding for the initiatives was made available through a request for proposals though the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services. Assemblyman Thiele encourages anyone struggling with an addiction, or has a loved one that is struggling, to get help by calling the State’s toll-free, 24-hour, 7-day-a-week HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or by texting HOPENY (Short Code 467369).