The Foundation for a Drug-Free World (DFW) today announced the successful distribution of one million educational booklets as part of a major initiative to combat substance abuse and overdose deaths in the Los Angeles area. The Truth About Drugs booklet series, a cornerstone of DFW's prevention efforts, provides factual, non-judgmental information on the effects of drugs and alcohol. Volunteers, community partners, and local organizations worked tirelessly over recent months to place these materials in high-traffic locations including stores, restaurants, schools, health clinics, community centers, and public events throughout Los Angeles County.
"This milestone distribution reflects our commitment to equipping Angelenos—especially young people and families—with the knowledge they need to make informed, drug-free choices," said a DFW spokesperson. "With overdose rates impacting communities across the region, prevention education at this scale can save lives and strengthen neighborhoods."
Key highlights of the campaign include partnerships with local businesses, faith-based groups, and civic organizations for widespread placement; targeted outreach in areas most affected by substance abuse; availability of the booklets in multiple languages to reach diverse communities; and integration with broader awareness events and school programs.
The Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a nonprofit international drug education program sponsored by the Church of Scientology and Scientologists in support of the humanitarian goal of creating a drug-free, crime-free world where human rights are a reality, as envisioned by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard.
The Foundation for a Drug-Free World has distributed more than 183 million Truth About Drugs booklets worldwide in 22 languages, supporting global efforts to reduce drug abuse through education. Booklets are available free of charge to individuals, educators, law enforcement, parents, and community leaders. For more information or to request materials, visit www.drugfreeworld.org.
This distribution comes at a critical time when drug overdose deaths remain a pressing public health issue in Los Angeles County. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, fentanyl-related deaths have surged in recent years, highlighting the need for effective prevention strategies. By placing educational materials directly in communities, DFW aims to empower individuals with knowledge about the risks of drug use, potentially reducing the likelihood of experimentation and addiction.
The campaign's focus on high-traffic locations ensures broad reach, particularly among young people who may encounter drugs in social settings. The availability of booklets in multiple languages also addresses the linguistic diversity of Los Angeles, making the information accessible to non-English speakers. DFW's ongoing efforts include partnerships with schools to integrate the booklets into health curricula, further reinforcing prevention messages.
Critics, however, have raised concerns about the involvement of the Church of Scientology in drug education programs. Some argue that the materials may promote a specific worldview, though DFW maintains that the booklets are factual and evidence-based. Regardless, the scale of distribution—over 183 million booklets globally—demonstrates the reach and influence of the program. For Los Angeles, the one million booklets represent a significant investment in community health, with the potential to make a tangible impact on substance abuse rates.
