Kids Learn Dangers of Smoking and Drugs

Press Release: July 18, 2007

Did you know that 88 Floridians die each day from tobacco related illnesses? 

The boys and girls attending New Horizons’ summer program learned that fact and other grim statistics during a recent presentation by Marcella Capar, Tobacco Prevention Coordinator from the St. Lucie County Health Department. 

The Student Assistance Summer Program was conducted for boys and girls aged 9 through 14.  Thirty students from Ft. Pierce, Port St. Lucie and Okeechobee gathered each weekday morning at Northport Elementary School for a day full of fun and activities.

While the students were having fun they also participated in a prevention program.

“During the seven week summer program, we scheduled a series of health and law enforcement officials to teach the kids about tobacco and drug awareness,” said Darlene Ligon, prevention specialist.  “We also worked on their social skills through sessions on problem solving and positive ways to express feelings.”

One of the student’s favorite presenters was Detective Lee Rhem from the Port St. Lucie Police Department. He did a computer presentation on gang prevention.  “The kids thought it was cool,” said Deann Ochoa, a teacher’s aide.

“At this age, they are very impressionable,” said Ochoa.  “If we can get them to make wise choices now, they will certainly benefit as older teens and adults.”

New Horizons’ Student Assistance Program is a substance abuse prevention program.  It provides a range of services for students in elementary and middle schools in St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River and Okeechobee Counties.  The program is free and confidential for students and their families.  For additional information about the Student Assistance Program call 772-467-3010 or visit our website at www.nhtcinc.org.