We envision a community where All youth are able to establish strong and positive relationships with family, school, peers, and the community.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to our Ruby and Gold Donors:

Essex Savings Bank and The F. Curtis & Susan B. Thrall Foundation, for their outstanding commitment to youth development and community wellness, and for generously supporting our efforts to continue offering impactful programs that uplift and empower our local youth.

The United Church of Chester and the Chester Rotary Club, for their ongoing partnership and dedication to building a stronger, more connected Tri-Town community. Together, we are creating brighter futures. Thank you for being a vital part of our mission.

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MISSION

 
TRI-TOWN YOUTH SERVICES BUREAU, INC. is a nonprofit agency that coordinates, develops, and provides services dedicated to promoting the positive growth and development of youth and families in Chester, Deep River, and Essex, Connecticut.

Do you know the dangers of Lean?

What Is Lean?

Lean, also called Purple Drank or Sizzurp, is a dangerous substance mix containing prescription cough syrup with codeine and promethazine, soda, and candy. Some versions also include alcohol or over-the-counter (OTC) cough medicines with dextromethorphan (DXM). This combination can slow breathing, cause addiction, and lead to overdose.

How Are Teens Getting It?

  • Misusing prescription cough syrup from home or illegal sources.

  • Stealing or buying large amounts of OTC cough medicines that contain DXM.

  • Mixing alcohol with DXM for stronger effects, increasing the risk of overdose.

Why Is Lean So Dangerous?

  • Highly Addictive: Opioids in Lean can lead to dependence and withdrawal.

  • Severe Health Risks: Effects include drowsiness, hallucinations, nausea, slowed breathing, seizures, and coma.

  • Deadly When Mixed: Alcohol, cannabis, and other depressants amplify the danger.

  • Overdose Risk: High doses of codeine or DXM can cause respiratory failure and death.

Warning Signs of Lean Use

  • Missing or frequently replaced cough medicine at home.

  • Empty bottles or cups with sticky, purple residue.

  • Slurred speech, extreme drowsiness, or confusion.

  • Purchasing or attempting to buy large quantities of OTC cough medicine.

Relevant Data & Statistics

  • CDC reports that opioid-related deaths, including codeine misuse, have surged in recent years.

  • National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that nearly 15% of high school seniors report misusing cough medicine.

  • American Association of Poison Control Centers warns of increasing DXM-related ER visits among teens.

Prevention Tips for Parents & Community

  • Secure medications: Keep prescription and OTC cough medicine locked up.

  • Monitor usage: Track how much cough medicine is in your home.

  • Educate teens: Talk about the dangers of Lean and substance misuse.

  • Stay alert: Report suspicious purchases of OTC cough syrups in stores.

Get Help & Resources

Protect Our Youth. Prevent Prescription & OTC Drug Abuse.

As is required by the state of Connecticut, TTYSB must address 6 arenas:

  • Juvenile Justice

  • Crisis Intervention

  • Child Welfare

  • Mental Health

  • Positive Youth Development

  • Recreation/Cultural

Contact us