The Cortland Area Communities That Care Coalition (CACTC) in concert with Cincinnatus, Cortland, Homer, Marathon, and McGraw school districts has established a program called the Safe Host Pledge.  Its purpose is to provide community-wide support for families who want children to socialize in safe, alcohol and drug-free settings.  It also serves to limit teen access to alcohol and other harmful substances.  To date, more than 300 adults have signed.

By signing the pledge, parents, caregivers, guardians, and concerned citizens promise that they will provide a safe and drug-free atmosphere for youth. 

1. I will be a Safe Host by providing adult supervision for the children in my home.
2. I will keep all forms of alcohol and other potentially hazardous items out of the hands of children.
3. I will not allow parties or gatherings in my home when I am not there.
4. I will not allow young people under the legal drinking age (21) to consume alcohol on my property.
5. I will welcome and encourage calls from other parents/guardians when my child is hosting a party or gathering and give them information about the level of supervision I will provide.
6. I will welcome communication from others who observe my child involved with alcohol, tobacco or other drugs.
7. I will educate myself about alcohol and drug use and abuse among school aged children.

Why is the Safe Host pledge needed? A 2005 survey of teenagers aged 13 to 18 conducted by the American Medical Association (AMA) found that nearly half of teenagers surveyed reported having obtained alcohol; two out of three teenagers said it was easy to get alcohol from their homes without parents knowing about it; one-third of teens reported it was easy to obtain alcohol from their own consenting parents; two out of five teenagers said it was easy to obtain alcohol from a friend’s parents; one in four teenagers responded they had attended a party where minors were drinking in front of parents; and for teens who obtained alcohol in the past six months, parents have been the supplier an average of three times in a six-month period.  Local youth survey data indicate that these same behaviors take place throughout Cortland County. 

How can you participate?  Go to the CACTC website at www.CortlandAreaCTC.org and  download the form, sign it, and either deliver or mail it to: CACTC c/o Catholic Charities of Cortland County, 33-35 Central Avenue, Cortland NY 13045.  You can also call 756-5992 ext 25 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  to make other arrangements.  

Let’s all work together to help keep this holiday season and the entire year happy, joyous and tragedy free. Be a Smart Social Host and Sign The Pledge!

Judie Murphy is the Project Coordinator for Cortland Area Communities That Care Coalition.