Sallisaw Declares National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week

Sallisaw’s Mayor Ernie Martens signed a proclamation on Monday officially declaring this week National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW) in Sallisaw. The signing ceremony took place at the GRDA pavilion at the Stanley Tubbs Memorial Library and was attended by members of the Sallisaw NOW Coalition and community advocates dedicated to raising awareness about substance misuse and promoting healthy choices.

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week is a national initiative designed to encourage teens to ask questions and learn science-based facts about drugs, drug abuse, alcohol, and addiction. By breaking down myths and providing reliable answers, the campaign aims to educate and empower young people to make informed decisions that protect their health and well-being.

During this week, the Sallisaw NOW Coalition is sharing key information about the dangers of substance misuse, including alarming statistics:

• 1 in 6 teens who begin drinking before age 15 are at risk of developing an alcohol use disorder.

• More than 150 people die each day from overdoses linked to synthetic opioids, like fentanyl.

• Nicotine vaping can damage brain development in young people, impacting memory, learning, and attention.

  
  

The coalition offers programs and resources promoting prevention and recovery in Sallisaw. Their initiatives include Narcan training, substance misuse education, and community outreach programs to support families, youth, and anyone affected by addiction.

The organization's goal is to provide the facts, foster open conversations, and encourage healthy choices for young people in the community and surrounding areas.

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week runs through Sunday, and residents are encouraged to take part in learning and sharing resources. Together, the community can build a healthier, safer future for Sallisaw’s youth.

For more information about the Sallisaw NOW Coalition and its upcoming events and resources, visit https://sallisawnow.com/.

Lindsie Dyer, Staff Writer

For more news stories stay tuned to The MIX 105.1 or visit www.kxmx.com