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Starting Friday 10/19, Burlington community members can pick up free red ribbons at the following locations:
Turning Point Center (191 Bank Street, 2nd Floor),
Burlington Police Department
Greater Burlington YMCA.

What is Red Ribbon Week?

National Substance Abuse Prevention Red Ribbon Week is the oldest and largest drug prevention campaign in the country. It takes place in late October each year. Schools and communities unite with the common goal of raising a generation of drug free children who make healthy choices.

Red Ribbon Week commemorates the ultimate sacrifice made by DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who died at the hands of drug traffickers in Mexico while fighting the battle against illegal drugs to keep our country and children safe.

Why should EVERYONE support substance abuse prevention?

The causes and consequences of substance abuse affect us all. Substance abuse is directly related to increased taxes, school dropouts, truancy, employee absences, impaired driving, traffic injuries and fatalities, increased violence, teen pregnancy, neglected children, crime, poverty, trauma…and on and on and on…

Cost – When last calculated in 2010, Vermont spent and estimated $100 Million to address the consequences from underage drinking alone (youth violence, traffic crashes, teen pregnancy, alcohol poisonings, alcohol treatment, injuries, property crime, work loss, etc).

Research suggests that for every $1 spent on prevention efforts it saves $10 that would have later been spent to pay for treatment, associated health costs, ER services, incarceration, etc.

What can people do to support Red Ribbon Week?

Everyone – can wear a red ribbon this week! Or tie one on your car!

Parents – can use this as an opportunity to talk to your children about the dangers of tobacco, alcohol and other drug use. Set clear rules about your expectations and enforce appropriate consequences so that your rules are respected.

Adults – can set a good example for our youth by not abusing drugs or alcohol or using medications without a prescription. Role modeling is key!

Could this be the first day of the rest of your life without tobacco?

On this day thousands of smokers across the country will take part in the American Cancer Society’s 37th annual Great American Smokeout, by attempting to go the entire day without lighting a cigarette. See their website for more info: http://www.cancer.org/Healthy/StayAwayfromTobacco/GreatAmericanSmokeout/index

Check out www.vtquitnetwork.org for resources and support to join the Great American Smokeout on November 15th!