SAFE Community Newsletter: December 2021
Welcome to our Excelsior Springs SAFE (Substance Abuse Free Environments) Community Newsletter, a resource for local prevention information.
SAFE will be hosting the Lane of Lights on December 21st. Mark your calendar and drive through the Lane of Lights (East Valley Park/Lover's Lane) between 5:30-9:00p.m. to support SAFE and the Excelsior Christmas Committee!
Fentanyl in the Northland
Northland Law Enforcement are warning of very dangerous counterfeit pills containing fentanyl that are circulating and causing overdoses among teens and young adults in the KC Northland. As caring adults, parents, and guardians, we need to let our teens know the very real dangers of misusing prescription pills. Learn what to say here.
Preventing Addiction
The changes a child’s brain is going through during adolescence are amazing, but this brain development (which lasts until the mid 20s) also leaves the brain vulnerable to the damaging effects of substance use. When teens use alcohol, nicotine, or other drugs, they are much more likely to become addicted to them--the earlier the use, the more chance of addiction. How can you help? Don't give teens access to alcohol, nicotine, or other drugs. Talk to your child about keeping their brain and body healthy by not using drugs and alcohol. Learn more here.
Commit to Quit in 2022
Have you been trying to quit nicotine? You can do this! Whether it's vaping, cigarettes, or other tobacco products, there are tools to help you on your quit journey. Here are 3 free tools to know about:
  1. This is Quitting is a text-based quit resource for youth wanting to quit vaping. All you have to do to get started is to text BREAKFREE to 88709. The program will guide you to choose a quit date and will give you lots of tips to keep you on track. The program is informed by many who have gone through it before, so content is relevant and helpful!
  2. Are you interested in quitting smoking? Quit Tobacco Now through MU Health Care is a great resource! Quit Tobacco Now consists of five free virtual classes held over the course of 10 weeks. Each session includes a group discussion as well as an activity to help guide an overall quit plan. Participants can join via phone or video. Throughout the entire program, participants will also have access to free nicotine replacement therapy products, such as patches, gum or lozenges. Register here!
  3. 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) is the free Missouri Quitline for anyone who would like to quit (includes vaping, cigarettes, all tobacco). You can also reach the Missouri Quitline here. This is an excellent resource including coaching, welcome kit, medications...all free.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Update
There are four waiting "littles" in ES. Can you help get them connected with "bigs"? Please consider who you know locally who would make a good "big" and send a simple email or phone call their way to suggest it. We have so many great community members who would be wonderful "bigs"! Let's see if we can get these four kids matched up ASAP! If you are interested in being a Big, go to bbbskc.org to get started with the process! Download the flier here.
Meaningful Meals
Looking for a way to connect with your kids and positively impact your family? The more times a week you sit down, unplug from technology, and enjoy a meal with your family, the more bonding for your family. Studies show regular unplugged meals together as a family are linked to lower rates of substance use and depression, better peer relationships, more self-esteem, and even better grades! The meals don't have to be complicated! Simply sitting down and having meals together leads to better connections between parents and kids and creates trust! Visit our Meaningful Meals Kit and find conversation starter cards at ParentUpKC.com/Meaningful-Meals!
If you are interested in being a part of SAFE's efforts, email us for more information!

Have a Wonderful Holiday Season!