YOUTH-LED PROJECT STICKER SHOCK CAMPAIGN BRINGS ATTENTION TO UNDERAGE ALCOHOL ACCESS

October 31, 2023: On October 21, the City of Alexandria “shocked” local shoppers with the Project Sticker Shock Campaign. This youth-led event kicked off with a press conference at the Del Pepper Community Resource Center (4850 Mark Center Drive) at 10 a.m. featuring youth and community leaders speaking about preventing underage alcohol access. 

Following the press conference, teams of youth and adults placed warning stickers, provided by the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority, on multi-packs of alcohol to highlight the legal consequences of providing alcohol to persons under 21. Participating retail stores received a certificate in recognition of their partnership. 

This campaign aims to reach community members ages 21 and older who may purchase alcohol for a person under age 21 – also referred to as a second-party sale. If a retail employee observes activity of a second party, such as passing of money, participation in selection, or bringing the alcohol to the counter, ID should be requested of the second party. 

In Virginia, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor to provide alcohol to a minor. Adults can face the following penalties upon conviction: 

• A $2,500 fine per young person provided an alcoholic beverage 

• Up to 12 months in jail 

• Loss of the driver’s license for up to 12 months 

This event was hosted by SAPCA in collaboration with the Alexandria Police Department; the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office; the Department of Community and Human Services; the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities; and the Alexandria City High School U.S. Army JROTC program.  

"SAPCA is appreciative of our partners for their help kicking off this important campaign and speaking up about the importance of preventing access to alcohol by underage youth" said SAPCA Coordinator Emma Beall.  

To report concerns regarding the sale or provision of alcohol to persons under age 21, call the Alexandria Police Department’s non-emergency number at 703.746.4444 or file a report online to the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority. 

Visit alexandriava.gov/SAPCA to learn more about SAPCA, including ways to get involved.