Empowering Kids: New Addiction Program Launches in Palm Beach County

Empowering Kids: New Addiction Program Launches in Palm Beach County

In the heart of Palm Beach County, a new initiative is set to make waves in the fight against addiction. On August 15, 2025, the Hanley Foundation launched a pioneering program aimed at helping children navigate the often turbulent waters of addiction in their families. This initiative isn’t merely a reaction to the pressing issue at hand; it’s a proactive step towards building a healthier future for our youngest residents.

The program, crafted specifically for children aged 7 to 12, is all about education and empowerment. Over six weeks, participants will engage in two-hour sessions that promise a blend of hands-on activities and critical emotional literacy. The curriculum is comprehensive, focusing on vital skills like processing emotions and practicing self-care strategies, while also framing addiction as the disease it is—a notion reinforced by recent discussions in the medical community. As Cleveland Clinic reminds us, addiction isn’t merely a failure of willpower but a chronic condition that alters brain chemistry, deeply affecting health, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Collaboration and Accessibility

This innovative program benefits from the collaborative efforts of the Hanley Foundation and behavioral health undergraduate students from Palm Beach State College. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the initiative, ensuring the sessions are engaging and educational. And here’s the kicker: it’s all free. Families can take advantage of this valuable opportunity without worrying about the financial burden often associated with such programs.

Sessions are set to take place across various community partner locations, spanning from Boca Raton to Lake Worth Beach. By reaching these diverse areas, the program aims to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that as many children as possible can engage with the curriculum and support system.

Understanding Addiction

There’s a lot to unpack when it comes to understanding addiction. As outlined by the Cleveland Clinic, addiction can manifest as either a substance use disorder or a behavioral addiction. With substances like alcohol, nicotine, and cannabis being widely recognized for their potential addictive qualities, it’s crucial for children to learn these aspects from a young age. This knowledge can empower them to make better choices and seek help when necessary.

The Hanley Foundation’s program not only educates but also aims to break the stigma surrounding addiction. Teaching children early on about these challenges can foster a more informed, compassionate community. It’s not just about the children who are directly affected; it’s about equipping an entire generation with the tools they need to confront and manage these issues in a healthier way.

Looking Ahead

The need for such programs has never been clearer. As the addiction crisis continues to evolve, initiatives like this are crucial in shaping how future generations view and deal with addiction. After all, in a world where approximately 10% of people aged 12 or older have experienced alcohol use disorder, as reported by the Cleveland Clinic, understanding the complexities of addiction is imperative.

Here’s hoping that the Hanley Foundation’s initiative not only provides immediate support to those in need but also lays the groundwork for a community that is informed and proactive about addiction as a disease. The journey has begun, and it promises to be transformative for many families in Palm Beach County.