Red Ribbon Week
October 23-31, 2026
Did you know that children of parents who talk to their teens regularly about drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those who don’t; yet, only a quarter of teens report having these conversations?
During Red Ribbon Week® (October 23-31), the oldest and largest drug prevention campaign in the nation, local coalition members are engaging schools and involving area businesses and other community partners in promoting healthy, substance-free choices. Visit www.redribbon.org to learn more - the life you save may be that of your own child or a dear friend.
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
October 24th from 10 AM - 2 PM
This October, CHCC is encouraging community members to properly dispose of unused, unwanted, or expired prescription medications. Unneeded medications left in the home can become a source of misuse, especially for youth. In fact, many people who misuse prescription drugs first obtain them from a family member or friend.
Join us in promoting safe medication disposal and protecting our youth. Visit the DEA Take Back Day or Maine Drug Takeback Program websites to find a disposal location near you. Together, we can help create safer homes and healthier communities.
York County High School Youth Summit
October 29, 2026
Spring Hill, South Berwick
York County high school students are invited to a day designed just for them! The Youth Summit will bring students together for a fun, interactive day focused on learning, growth, connection, and empowerment. Students will have opportunities to connect with peers from across York County, explore new ideas, and build skills they can carry back to their schools and communities.
Students interested in attending should contact Chelsea Reichert at chelsea.reichert@mainehealth.org with questions or for additional information.
Youth Mental Health First Aid Training
October 30 & November 13, 2026
9:30AM - 12:30 PM
My Place Teen Center
MaineHealth is partnering with My Place Teen Center to host a Youth Mental Health First Aid training to teach adults how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among youth ages 12–18. Mental Health First Aid Youth.
The training is designed for teachers, school staff, coaches, camp counselors, youth group leaders, parents, and other adults who work with young people. Participants learn how to recognize common signs and symptoms of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, and substance use challenges; respond when a young person is experiencing a crisis; and help connect youth with appropriate support. The course also addresses trauma, self-care, social media, and bullying.
Space is limited, so if you or someone from your organization would like to participate, please reach out to Reegan Hebert at MaineHealth directly to reserve your spot at Reegan.hebert@mainehealth.org to reserve a spot. For more information, click here.
Nutrition Classes
Coming in October!
Starting in October, we'll offer nutrition education classes in communities across York County, with practical information and tools to help people eat well, prevent and manage chronic disease, and make healthy choices that fit their lives and budgets.
Want to bring NourishME to your community? We're looking for organizations interested in hosting classes, referring participants, sharing resources, or partnering with us in other ways. Contact us at chcc@une.edu to get connected.
FREE FOOD & CLOTHING EVENTS
Local Food Resources
Free Clothing
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