May 8th, 2020
Board Member of LowCountry Alliance for Healthy Youth Writes an Op-ed in Island Packet to Share his Decision to Stop Selling Tobacco to Promote Positive Teen Health
David Martin, the owner of the Hilton Head Island Piggly Wiggly and a business representative on the board of LowCounty Alliance for Healthy Youth (LCAHY), wrote an op-ed in the Island Packet sharing his decision to stop selling tobacco products. David Martin stated that youth who worked at his grocery store were being pressured to sell to their peers. David Martin wants to be part of the solution to the problem of underage use of tobacco and nicotine, so he stopped selling these products. David acknowledged that he might lose some profits because of his decision, but he believes it is worth it to help protect the health of teens. The owner of Piggly Wiggly went on to say that everyone in the community has a responsibility to speak to teens often about the risk drugs and alcohol pose to teen health. Furthermore, he said it is especially important for adults to talk to teens about the increased risks that vaping and smoking pose to COVID-19. David Martin shared his decision with the community to create awareness for this important teen health issue and to encourage other business owners to promote healthy lifestyles.