As Principal Joseph Marinzoli distributed the Third Grade Healthy Life Choices Coloring and Activity books to students, he thanked Police Detective Pat D’Onofrio who dropped them off and spoke with the students about the importance of making healthy choices. He’s just one of many grateful education professionals at Alan B. Shepard Jr. Elementary School in Old Bridge who recently welcomed the visit.
“This is the perfect age to start educating students about making healthy choices,” he said. “We’re grateful for these resources and the students really enjoy them, too.”
For over 10 years, the partnership between the PSEG Foundation, Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) and the Old Bridge Police Department has helped students focus on living a healthy life without substance abuse.
“The Old Bridge Police Department actively engages with students across 13 schools, from third to fifth grade. Around 650 to 700 students in each grade level receive impactful age-appropriate programs designed to foster a strong sense of awareness and responsibility, like the Third Grade Life Choices Coloring and Activity Book,” said Detective D’Onofrio.
The activity book provides crucial information and encouragement to help students make healthy decisions.
“Prevention efforts by family members and the educational system are vital to the mission of this program, as they provide the guidance and support needed to steer children toward healthier life choices,” said Angelo Valente, executive director, PDFNJ. “These educational materials are distributed statewide to educate students on healthy living and include a contract for students to sign, along with fun and engaging prevention education activities.”
By distributing these activity books through schools, PDFNJ and the PSEG Foundation emphasize educators’ critical role in informing New Jersey’s youth about the dangers of substance abuse. By joining forces, the partnership is making a significant impact in the fight against the addiction and opioid crisis, educating young students and engaging the entire community in fostering a safe and healthy environment.
“We recognize the importance of reaching children at a young age to help them make healthy choices that will follow them throughout their lives. Together with the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and the Old Bridge Police Department, significant strides have been made in educating students about making healthy choices regarding drugs and alcohol,” said Calvin Ledford, PSEG Foundation president and director, Corporate Social Responsibility.
To learn more about PDFNJ, click here.
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