Aren’t we a bit tired of hearing all the stories about the young people here in Connecticut when they do the wrong thing? What about all the good choices that so many kids are making on a daily basis? Here are 2 stories that involve young people, getting involved in the right kind of activities.

1. The Milford Youth Commission is collecting non-perishable food donations, now through February 14th, for the John Ridgely Food Pantry in Milford! This food drive coincides with a time that local pantries start to see donations dropping, with the holiday season ending and fresh produce not yet in season. The Youth Commission partnered with 3 local businesses as drop-off locations, and members of the Commission organized the drive from start to finish!

You can drop off donations at Jenkins Chiropractic, the Milford YMCA, and at the Milford Firehouse (directions at each of the links). You can let the teens of the Milford Youth Commission know that you support their efforts by making a donation before Valentines Day!

2. The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of Connecticut is encouraging teens to stay away from alcohol through its 5th Annual PSA (Public Service Announcement) Contest!

Connecticut residents and Connecticut college students are encouraged to submit 30-second video entries to the contest. The PSAs should focus on the dangers of underage drinking, and the need for parents to get involved in preventing teen  drinking. It’s a chance for young aspiring filmmakers and actors to show off their talent to the public, while also sending a serious message about underage drinking.  Last year, teams of students from many of our local colleges, including the University of New Haven, University of Bridgeport, and University of Hartford all entered the competition. In total, local college students have submitted more than 100 entries since the contest began!

This year’s contest will highlight the launch of WSWC’s new website, www.talktomenow.org. The website is loaded with resources for youth and parents alike, about the health risks, safety concerns, and the possible legal consequences of underage drinking.

If you and your friends would like to enter, make sure you fill out the application by Wednesday, February 15th! Submissions are due on Wednesday, April 4th. You can go to WSWC’s contest page to learn more about how to enter, and you’ll also find links to previous contest winners on that page, too. Good luck!