For Immediate Release
March 24, 2006

Contact: Howard Sutter
 (714) 834-2178

Countywide Effort Targets Problem of Underage Drinking

(Santa Ana) –  Organizations from throughout Orange County are joining together to sponsor a series of Town Hall meetings examining the problem of underage drinking and seeking solutions to this dangerous practice.

“Alcohol is the most frequently used substance by California youth. By the time our children reach 5^th grade, 27% have used alcohol, and that number increases to more than 62% by the time youth reach the 11^th grade,” said Acting County Health Officer Dr. Hildy Meyers. “Surveys clearly show that youths who drink excessively are at higher risk for social and school related problems. For the health of our children, we must all work together to address the problem of underage drinking in our communities.”

The Town Hall meetings, to be held during March, April and May, encourage parents to “Start Talking Before They Start Drinking,” because research shows that families exert a great deal of influence on whether a child uses alcohol later in life. According to the Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, children and teens are less likely to abuse alcohol if parents are involved in their children’s lives, make and enforce clear rules and are positive role models.

The Orange County Health Care Agency will co-host two of the Town Hall meetings to be held in the county. Those meetings will be held:

• Monday, March 27 from 12:30 – 2 p.m., at the Stanton Community Resource Center, 11822 Santa Paula Street, and
• Monday, May 1 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., at Savanna High School in Anaheim, 301 N. Gilbert Street.

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