ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Tuesday, students from Delta and Menominee Counties raised awareness about the dangers of underage drinking.
Delta County Communities That Care partnered with the Delta and Menominee Healthy Youth Coalition, local law enforcement, and other organizations to hold a Sticker Schock campaign in Escanaba and Gladstone. The group went to Elmer’s County Market, Save-Mor, Meijer, Pat’s Foods, and North Bluff Grocery to put stickers on alcohol products, warning buyers that it is illegal to provide alcohol to those under 21.
“Michigan law makes it a crime for any person to sell or provide alcohol to a minor with up to a $1,000 fine and/or up to 60 days in jail for first time conviction,” the bright yellow stickers read.
According to Director Patrick Bradway, Delta County Communities That Care aims to help young people live healthier lives, especially as underage drinking remains a prevalent issue.
“Last fall, I did a survey of 1,500 students in Delta County, and 61% of them said that they drank alcohol or have had alcohol,” Bradway said. “Most of that alcohol was purchased by adults, so our initiative is to give our community tools and equip them to help protect the students that we have.”
Delta County Communities That Care offers programs and resources for people struggling with or working to prevent substance abuse. For more information, visit upctc.com/delta or the organization’s Facebook page.
