The Substance Abuse Advisory Secretariat of the Ministry of Health capitalized on the occasion of Valentine’s Day last week, with a mini anti-drug campaign.

Deputy Coordinator of the substance Abuse Secretariat, Joanna Joseph explained the objectives of the campaign.

“Our aim is to encourage people to take care of themselves and to love each other,” she said. “Many times we sit and wait on persons to ask for help and sometimes they don’t, so we just felt like today in the spirit of giving for Valentine’s Day we will be going out and giving fruits with an encouraging anti-drug message to help persons to love and appreciate each other, and to live the best lives that we can live, drug free.”

The staff of the unit conducted this as a community outreach activity. In keeping with this year’s slogan the ministry distributed red apples as compared to the traditional candy.

“The apple represents the spirit of the occasion, so rather than giving chocolate and sweets and the traditional candy, we wanted to out a healthy spin on it and encourage others to eat wholesome foods,” Ms. Joseph said.

At the Office of the Prime Minister, Hon. Allen Chastanet took the opportunity to appeal and encourage people especially young men to refrain from drug abuse.

“We see so much talent and drugs is the greatest exhibitor of you fulfilling that goal so for your family, for yourself and eventually for your country we all need your support, stay straight,” he said.

The substance abuse team of the Ministry of Health distributed 200 fruit packages on the occasion.