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December 2024

MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

December is Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month. As the holiday season approaches, CHCC encourages everyone to prioritize safety when selecting toys and gifts, especially for infants and children under age three. Many toys on the market may pose risks, including exposure to lead—a toxic substance that can harm young children.


Lead can often be found in older or imported toys, toy jewelry, and antique or vintage items. This includes products purchased second-hand at thrift stores, flea markets, or garage sales, as well as heirloom toys passed down through generations. These items were often made before federal regulations limited lead use in 1978.


Signs of Lead Poisoning

Children exposed to lead may experience symptoms such as developmental delays, learning difficulties, irritability, and more. Educating yourself about the signs of lead exposure and checking for recalled toys can help protect your loved ones.


Prevention Tips

The good news? Childhood lead poisoning is preventable! Here’s how you can keep your family safe:

  • Avoid giving children toys manufactured before 1978.
  • Steer clear of antique or vintage toys, particularly those with chipped or peeling paint.
  • Check for product recalls on toys and remove any that are flagged.
  • Get your child tested! Maine requires testing for lead poisoning at well-child visits up to the age of two years old, but parents should test up to age six if their child is at risk or if there are any concerns regarding exposure. It can be as easy as a finger prick, with a venous blood draw only necessary if a positive result requires further testing.


By staying informed and vigilant, you can help ensure a joyful and safe holiday season for your family.

Learn About Lead in Consumer Products
Find Out About the Healthy Homes Grant

PROJECT ALLIANCE

Cannabis Highlight

Did you know? 


Cannabis is not legal to use everywhere, per state law: "Using cannabis in any form (smoking, eating or vaping) isn’t allowed in public places, including amusement parks, ski resorts, sporting and music venues, state and national parks, campsites, playgrounds, sidewalks and roads, cannabis retail businesses, bars, restaurants and outdoor or rooftop cafes."

Learn More About Cannabis Laws Here

Talking With Youth About Cannabis


Talking with youth about cannabis can be challenging, but it’s one of the most effective ways to guide them toward healthy decisions. When young people feel supported and understand the impact of their choices, they are more likely to avoid substance use. Staying informed and prepared can make these conversations easier and more impactful.


  • Start Early: Find dedicated time to talk—not rushed moments.
  • Keep Talking: Make discussions about substance use and mental health ongoing, not one-time.
  • Be Supportive: Listen without interrupting and show you care. Supportive relationships reduce the likelihood of substance use.
  • Set Clear Rules: Establish expectations about delaying substance use until at least 21 in a trusting environment.
  • Focus on Their Goals: Discuss how choices like underage cannabis use can affect school, sports, and future aspirations.
  • Teach “No” Strategies: Help them handle peer pressure by practicing responses like, “I’ll get grounded,” or, “It’ll ruin my chances for sports.”
  • Remind Them of the Facts: Most youth don’t use cannabis—focus on their positive choices.
  • Promote Safe Driving: Explain that cannabis affects coordination and reaction times, making it unsafe to drive high.


For more information, check out the sites below for helpful materials in talking to teens about Cannabis.

Good to Know Maine: Talking to YouthTips & Resources
SAMHSA:Talk. They Hear You.Videos & Resources

Tobacco & Vape-Free Schools

Are you interested in learning more about how schools can prevent teen tobacco and vape use? Our friends over at MaineHealth are currently hosting a free three-part webinar series on this topic. Please click on the image below or scan the QR code to register and hear more from experts in the field!

Better Biddeford: Skate Park Salon

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Wednesday, December 4th at 6:00 PM

McArthur Library Community Room


Join the Better Biddeford Group to connect with Biddeford's City Councilors and Parks and Recreation staff to discuss keeping the Skate Park at Rotary Park.

SNAP-EDUCATION

The holiday season is a time for celebration, and what better way to enjoy it than with delicious, wholesome recipes? With guidance from the SNAP-Ed program, you can explore lighter takes on festive favorites and creative dishes packed with seasonal flavors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for quick, nutritious meals amidst the holiday hustle, these SNAP-Ed-inspired recipes are sure to bring joy to your table and balance to your celebrations.


Click Here for More Recipes

BE THERE FOR ME

Be There for ME is for all parents and caregivers in Maine, and the people who support them. Finding support can be hard and take time. Everyone has a role to play — from healthcare providers and teachers to neighbors and friends.

 

Click the link below for ideas on how you can help families in your community beyond sharing the Be There for ME website as a resource.

Click Here for Ideas on How to Help Families

JOIN OUR TEAM

AS A PROJECT COORDINATOR FOR COMMUNITY HEALTH INITIATIVES

CHCC is seeking a Project Coordinator to lead health promotion and youth engagement efforts in substance use prevention across the community. This role offers a unique chance to design, implement, and monitor impactful health campaigns, as well as work closely with community partners to educate and engage youth in meaningful ways. Candidates will coordinate multiple projects, develop partnerships, and help drive positive change across the region.


As part of the University of New England (UNE), we offer a competitive benefits package, a supportive work environment, and the opportunity to make a real difference. Click here to learn more about the position and UNE’s benefits package.

APPLY NOW & MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

MY PLACE TEEN CENTER OPEN HOUSE

Monday, December 9th from 4-7:30 pm

75 Bacon Street, Biddeford

YOUTH FULL MAINE'S

FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION

Wednesday, December 4th from 12-2PM

Biddeford Ice Arena Parking Lot

FREE and Open to All


TAKE NOTE: This is a drive-thru event only and replaces the regular 3rd Wednesday distribution at Rotary Park. If you are in need of food before the January distribution, please visit www.youthfullme.org.


Bookmark CHCC's Website for All Upcoming Events

Coastal Healthy Communities Coalition

207-602-3551

chcc@une.edu

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