Grant Funding Available for Project Prom, Graduation Lock-In Events…

SIKESTON - The Southeast Coalition for Roadway Safety is offering grant funding to local schools that hold student lock-in events for Project Prom or High School graduation. Events must include a presentation or activity educating students on highway safety issues within their night's agenda. Qualifying schools will receive $200 each to assist with event expenses such as location rental, food or entertainment.

"These supervised events provide a safe, fun environment for students to celebrate their special event with friends," said Southeast District Traffic Engineer Craig Compas. "Lives can be changed in seconds by a bad decision like drinking and driving. We want these special events and milestones to be filled with good memories and unmarred by tragedy."

Compas explained that many substance-impaired drivers are under the age of 21.

The Southeast Coalition will be accepting grant applications now through Feb. 18, 2026. Interested schools and/or their sponsors can submit the online grant application by visiting www.savemolives.com/mcrs/project-prom-graduation-grant. Funding is available for up to 44 local schools.

For additional information, contact Senior Communications Specialist Ashley Metelski at (573) 472-5885 or MoDOT's Customer Service Center at 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (888-275-6636), or visit the Southeast Coalition's website at: www.savemolives.com/se

###