
Why? The effects of drugs on our community: Families-- In 2003--27,938 children in Ohio were removed from homes where substance abuse was a contributing factor Business-- One of every 10 employees in Ohio has a substance abuse problem Criminal Justice-- Last year Cleveland police handled over 6,000 cases for drug offenses Neighborhoods-- increased availability of drugs over saturation of liquor outlets Lack of position programs for youth Neighborhood deterioration Crime, fear, apathy, hopelessness, despair |
| Substance Abuse Initiative of Greater Cleveland |

What? A Drug Free Zone (DFZ) is defined as a neighborhood within the City of Cleveland where illegal drug activity is not tolerated. The neighborhood residents decide the boundaries of their zone. Residents must become organized and commited to involving all segments of their community in drug and crime prevention efforts. Citizens must work together with Police and other City services and use multiple strategeis to reduce crime and drug abuse and to promote neighborhood improvement. A DFZ consist of the following: A target neighborhood where residents, business , churches, and other sectors work together Resident commitment to spend time in drugh and crime prevention activities Cooperative working relaitonship between citizens and police in reducing drug trafficking and crime Coordination of other City services to provide community improvement Multiple strategies to improve the safety and quality of life for all |
How? 1st Month--Getting Started--Call SAI for a presentation. 2nd-4th Months--Coming Together 3rd-7th Months--Beginning Strategies 3rd-6th--Submitting Application 4th-8th Month--Implementing Strategies (Ongoing) 8th--12th Months--Application for Signs 12th-15th Months--Sign Placement 12th Month>>>>Expanding Efforts Ongoing>>>>Evaluating Progress Key Intervals---Celebrating Success |
| Drug Free Zone Strategy Council Meeting held Every 3rd Wednesday of each Month. at SAI Offices 12200 Fairhill Blvd-- Meeting Rm B121 Cleveland, Ohio 44120 |
| Download DFZ Forms & Resources DFZ Community Service Hours Form Cleveland Police District Maps |