Ocean County Freeholder Deputy Director Gerry P. Little, liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health, announced that the Red Ribbon Campaign will be held Oct. 23-31.
“The Red Ribbon Campaign is the oldest and largest drug-prevention program in the United States, which reaches millions of young people every year,” Little said. “Red Ribbon Week is a great way for Ocean County communities to unite and take a stand against drugs. Many of our schools are participating and are asking our youngsters to commit to a drug-free lifestyle.”
Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department public health coordinator, said the Red Ribbon Campaign started in 1985 when drug traffickers in Mexico City murdered drug enforcement Agent Kiki Camerena. The displaying of red ribbons during this week has become a symbol of intolerance toward the use of drugs.
Regenye said, “Many schools, businesses, government offices, law enforcement agencies, etc., recognize this week by wearing red ribbons or participating in Red Ribbon Week activities. Some of our schools in Ocean County are bringing in speakers on drug abuse, hosting poster contests, wearing red ribbons and red bracelets, and having children compose essays about the danger of drug use and abuse.”
Joanne Schuh, the health department’s municipal alliance coordinator, said the National Family Partnership is the national sponsor of Red Ribbon Campaign.
She said, “the National Family Partnership helps our citizens come together to keep children, families and communities safe, healthy and drug-free through parent training, networking and sponsoring the national Red Ribbon Campaign.”
Schuh said the municipal alliances support Red Ribbon Week each year throughout Ocean County. The Ocean County municipal alliance program provides educational programs and outreach to a diverse population in Ocean County using community partnerships.
The alliance funds in excess of 175 programs each year addressing alcohol, tobacco and drug prevention and education. These programs are funded using Drug Enforcement Demand Reduction fines, funds collected from individuals who have been convicted of drug offenses.
Regenye said, “There are many antidrug and drug-free-living programs that are used in our school systems and adult venues. Being drug-free is an all-year, everyday effort, but having a week recognizing this has the opportunity to reach those who may not realize they have a problem or someone who has a problem and has been afraid to address it.
“If you have a drug or alcohol problem, or you know someone that does, you can call the Ocean County Health Department Alcohol and Drug Unit for information at 732-341-9700, ext. 7535. All calls are confidential,” he said.