The Schuyler County Legislature designated October 23 through 31 as Red Ribbon Week in the county to align with the national campaign. This proclamation was supported by the Schuyler County Coalition on Underage Drinking and Drugs (SCCUDD), Schuyler County Public Health, and the Southern Tier Tobacco Awareness Coalition (STTAC). This campaign raises awareness about the dangers of youth substance use and promotes drug-free living.

“Red Ribbon Week is a great reminder for all of us to talk with the young people in our lives about the risks of alcohol and other substance use,” said Emily Hoffman, the Chair of SCCUDD. “We thank the legislature for helping raising awareness of this important topic.”

Schuyler County continues to make meaningful progress in reducing youth substance use, with local data showing a steady decline in youth drug use since the first youth survey was organized by SCCUDD in 2013. Despite this progress, alcohol, e-cigarettes/vaping, and marijuana remain the substances most used by the youth who report substance use. These trends highlight the need for sustained prevention efforts to ensure that our youth have the knowledge, support, and resources they need to make healthy choices and avoid the long-term consequences of substance use.

The legislature voted unanimously to formally recognize October 23-31, 2026 as Red Ribbon Week. By issuing this proclamation, they reaffirmed their commitment to preventing underage drinking and drug use in Schuyler County.

Community members are encouraged to wear a red ribbon throughout the week to support drug-free living.

SCCUDD is a group of dedicated community members, businesses, and agencies that work to prevent, reduce, and delay the onset of substance use among Schuyler County youth by collaborating with our community partners, promoting prevention education and substance-free activities, and implementing environmental strategies. SCCUDD works to reduce youth use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs as they can cause lifelong problems. SCCUDD’s vision is a connected community where youth have education, resources, and drug-free options to help their journey to become happy, healthy adults.

For more information, or to become involved with SCCUDD, visit SCCUDD online at www.SchuylerCountyNY.gov/SCCUDD, or follow SCCUDD on Facebook and Instagram.

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