Farmingville, NY – With recent reports showing drug abuse is on the rise in Suffolk County, Supervisor Edward P. Romaine would like to remind parents and guardians that free drug testing kits are available from the Town of Brookhaven’s Youth Bureau, located at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill in Farmingville. The Town receives the kits courtesy of Sheriff Errol Toulon, Jr. and the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office. The kits are funded with money seized by drug dealers and are not paid for by taxpayers.
The Youth Bureau has provided hundreds of drug testing kits since joining the ‘Test Don’t Guess Program’ and has seen an increase in requests for drug testing kits during the COVID 19 pandemic.
“This program provides parents and guardians with an opportunity to discuss the importance of making healthy choices,” Supervisor Romaine said. “Additionally, it provides a means for parents to reassure themselves about any suspicions they may have and if professional help is necessary. I want to thank Sheriff Toulon, the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office and our Youth Bureau for providing these kits and working with the Town to engage in active drug use intervention.”
“As a volunteer on an EMS squad myself, I have spoken with fellow emergency responders regarding the current drug landscape and encourage parents to contact the Youth Bureau and pick up a drug testing kit,” said Councilman Michael Loguercio, Town Board Liaison to the Youth Bureau.
The Drug Testing Kit Program is anonymous and there are no questions asked. There is a limit of two kits per family. Each kit comes with information on how to approach the subject of drug testing with your child, what to do if your child refuses to be tested and a substance use disorder treatment referral list. For more information about this program or to obtain a free drug testing kit, please contact the Town of Brookhaven Youth Bureau directly at 631-451-8011.