Yonge and Dundas Square was a sea of smiling faces as the Drug-Free Marshals celebrated their 25th annual “Say no to Drugs, Say Yes to Life,” Christmas Festival. This yearly event sponsored by the Church of Scientology of Toronto and the Foundation for a Drug-Free World (an organization founded by the Church of Scientology) invited children to learn about the pitfalls of drug use while celebrating the holiday season.
A live band held a carol sing while a local dance troop showed off their moves. Hot chocolate, Christmas goodies, and a visit from Santa and his elves kept kids entertained, and celebrated the winners of the “Why I want a drug-free community” essay contest. The Drug-Free Marshals also set up arts and crafts tables for kids to make their own Christmas decorations.
Throughout the event, the Drug-Free Marshals handed out booklets entitled “The Truth about Drugs,” and a variety of literature on drug related abuse. At 2:00 pm they asked the kids and their families to step forward and take the “Drug-free pledge,” and promise to lead lives that were free of illicit substances. Everyone who participated received a Drug-Free Marshal badge.
Over the past year, the City of Toronto has been inundated with scandals about drug use and it is interesting to see kids taking an interest in their future and the health of those around them.
Is this annual event a good way to teach children about drug use? Fresh Print wants to hear from you in the comments, on our Facebook page, or on Twitter!