By Jennifer DeSena
Soon residents will see this symbol on bags and pizza boxes from Manhasset merchants. Manhasset Coalition Against Substance Abuse has joined a nationwide movement to protect our kids while they are most at risk of injury or addiction from exposure to alcohol and other drugs. The SAFE Homes network stands for Support Alcohol Free Environments for kids.
It is not a binding contract, but a pledge that you do not condone underage drinking in your home. If your child hosts a gathering in your home you will supervise, and when you are not home, gatherings are not permitted.
It encourages parents to communicate about where their children are and whether they have been seen using alcohol or drugs. Ask yourself these questions: Would you want to be kept in the dark if your child has been seen using alcohol or drugs? Are other adults allowed to give your child alcohol or drugs? Is it safe when kids drink or do drugs in a home with no responsible adult? As we read of increasing overdoses and deaths from alcohol, more parents say “No” to these questions.
See the list and join at www.manhassetcasa.org/safe-homes or email casa_org@manhassetschools.com.
