EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP - The Greater Atlantic Partnership coalition and youth members of Stand Up and REBEL Dec. 10 participated in a "Sticker Shock" event to raise awareness about the serious consequences of providing alcohol to underage youth. The educational program also serves as a powerful tool to combat underage drinking in the region.
The Sticker Shock campaign took place at Passion Vines in Egg Harbor Township where students placed brightly colored, informative stickers on alcoholic beverage products. The stickers read: "Keep it Legal! It’s ILLEGAL to buy alcohol for youth under age 21. The PENALTY is up to 6 Months in Jail + $1000 FINE" to remind consumers of the legal consequences associated with providing alcohol to minors.
The initiative is supported by law enforcement agencies and the primary goal is to encourage responsible behavior among adults and highlight the dangers of alcohol use by those under the legal drinking age. Students from several high schools shared their knowledge and educated shoppers about the harmful effects alcohol can have on young people.
“The sticker can make someone second guess if they should give their drinks to someone underage,” Brigid, an Egg Harbor Township High School SUAR student said.
“I’ve heard stories of teens our age drinking and it worries me,” Tiana, also from EHT SUAR said. “I wish the consequences were thought of more so this activity makes it so people have to read the legal consequences if someone decides to provide alcohol to kids.”
The Sticker Shock event is a vital part of ongoing efforts to address underage drinking in Atlantic County. Engaging young people in the campaign will create a ripple effect that leads to greater awareness, responsibility, and ultimately a reduction in underage alcohol consumption, organizers said.
The program encourages everyone - parents, guardians, retailers, and community members - to take an active role in protecting the youth of Atlantic County.
The Greater Atlantic Partnership coalition is a substance misuse prevention coalition. The coalition is funded in part by a Drug Free Communities grant through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
