Rite Aid, one of the country’s largest pharmacy chains, has announced that it will stop selling e-cigarettes and vaping products to customers under 21 years old. The chain plans to remove these items from all stores across Pennsylvania, including Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. and Rite Aid Corp will no longer sell tobacco products to customers under 21 years old.
In 2020, Rite Aid announced plans to remove all tobacco products from their stores within two years. By late 2022, the company confirmed the removal of cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and other tobacco products was complete chainwide. Rite Aid is committed to quality and personalized care and offers a wide range of pharmaceutical services, including prescription filling.
The Phase Out of Tobacco Sales at Rite Aid began in 2020 when the company announced plans to remove all tobacco products from their stores within two years. By late 2022, the removal of cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and other tobacco products was complete chainwide.
Rite Aid has 34 stores in Philadelphia, PA, and offers products and services to help people lead a healthy, happy life. Starting September 1, Walgreens will stop selling tobacco products to people who aren’t legally allowed to drink alcohol. Rite Aid will do the same, and all individuals have the same rights with respect to their Protected Health Information (PHI), such as at their pharmacy.
To reach Rite Aid, call 1-800-RITE-AID or visit their local Rite Aid store in Philadelphia, PA.
📹 Kensington Love & Drugs
Awareness #addiction #mentalillness #homeless #disorder (WATCH IN HD! 1080p ) For those viewers of this channel who have …
Is Rite Aid closing stores in Pennsylvania?
Rite Aid has announced the closure of over 689 stores since October, including 80 in Pennsylvania. This represents 11. 6 of the 689 closures. Only Michigan, Ohio, and California have experienced more closures since October. The closures are particularly significant in Pennsylvania, as it is the company’s home state. The closures are expected to impact the retail sector in the Keystone State.
What is the Rite Aid scandal?
Rite Aid, founded in 1962 as Thrift D Discount Center, faced an accounting scandal in 1999 when it began restating earnings due to accounting irregularities. Six former Rite Aid senior executives were convicted of conspiracy in 2003 for accounting fraud and false filings with the SEC. The company changed its name to Rite Aid Corporation in 1968 and moved its stock to the New York Stock Exchange in 1970.
Rite Aid’s growth was marked by acquisitions like Envision Pharmaceutical Services in 2015 and two merger deals with Walgreens and Albertsons. Former Rite Aid executives admitted to overstating net income between 1997 and 2000.
Can you add Rite Aid card to Apple wallet?
It is recommended that customers save their Rite Aid Rewards card to Apple Wallet or Google Pay, as this will facilitate convenient access.
Can you buy cigarettes in Walmart in us?
Walmart has demonstrated a reluctance to sell certain tobacco products. In 2019, the company announced that it would only sell these products to individuals aged 21 or older. This decision was made in response to mounting regulatory pressure aimed at preventing sales to minors.
How to get cash back at Rite Aid?
Rite Aid Rewards members are able to accrue bonus Cash, which can be converted into a reduction on future purchases. One thousand points are equivalent to two dollars’ worth of BonusCash.
Does Rite Aid cell cigs?
Rite Aid has removed all electronic cigarettes and vaping products from its stores, citing CDC data showing e-cigarette use drove a 38 increase in tobacco use among high school students. Rite Aid will continue to sell traditional cigarettes, as per a spokesperson. CVS Health discontinued sales of all tobacco products in 2014, and Walgreens has started piloting tobacco-free stores, but does not have plans to completely stop selling e-cigarettes. The company will continue to sell traditional cigarettes.
Are Rite Aid and Walgreens the same?
In 2017, Walgreens announced the cancellation of its merger with Rite Aid, offering to purchase 2, 186 stores for $5. 18 billion, plus a $325 million cancellation penalty. A revised deal was made, with Walgreens purchasing 1, 932 locations for $4. 38 billion, approved by the FTC on September 19. The revised sale was completed in March 2018, leaving Rite Aid with around 2, 600 remaining stores. Three distribution centers and related inventory were transferred, and most stores were rebranded as Walgreens.
In February 2018, Albertsons announced plans to acquire the remainder of Rite Aid in a merger of equals, but the plan failed to please shareholders and was cancelled on August 8, 2018. In October 2020, Rite Aid announced the acquisition of Bartell Drugs, a Seattle-area chain, for $95 million, which faced criticism from customers due to staff turnover and computer system glitches.
Does Rite Aid take Apple Pay?
Rite Aid accepts Apple Pay for in-store, online, and in-app transactions, and Google Pay exclusively for in-store purchases. In order to complete an in-app purchase, the customer is required to input their address, email address, and name. The option to make a payment via Apple Pay will become available as of September 15, 2022.
Does Walgreens sell cigarettes in PA?
A recently enacted legislative measure prohibits Walgreens pharmacies from selling cigarettes or tobacco products, with the exception of those designed to assist in smoking cessation. Those who advocate for public health have criticized the inconsistency of selling cigarettes alongside smoking cessation aids such as patches and gum.
Did CVS ever sell cigarettes?
CVS Health, a large retail pharmacy chain, removed tobacco products from its over 7800 retail stores in 47 states in 2014 and launched a high-profile media and advertising campaign to encourage smoking cessation. The effect of CVS’s decision on cigarette purchasing was examined using household-level data and state-level data. Household-level data compared the effect of CVS Health’s decision on cigarette purchasing by consumers who previously purchased cigarettes at CVS versus those who purchased at other retail outlets.
State-level data assessed whether the CVS decision led to population-level reductions in cigarette purchasing, comparing states with substantial CVS retail market share to states with no CVS retail presence.
Data were provided by IRi Worldwide, a firm that collects retail purchasing data. To assess changes in cigarette purchasing associated with tobacco removal, the study used monthly data for unique households participating in IRi’s Household Panel Survey. The data included demographic data, monthly cigarette pack purchasing volume, frequency, and location. IRi tracked households’ participation monthly and flagged those who did not report any purchases of any retail good within a given month. All households were de-identified.
The study compared the Nielsen Company’s monitoring of television viewership to understand the popularity and characteristics of shows.
When can you buy cigarettes in PA?
In accordance with state legislation, the sale, distribution, or provision of tobacco products to individuals under the age of 21 is strictly prohibited. The federal law, which took effect on December 20, 2019, mandates that sales be denied to individuals under the age of 21 for FDA-regulated tobacco and vaping products, with no exceptions. The recently implemented federal minimum age legislation pertains to all tobacco and vaping products.
📹 Inside America’s Largest Open-Air Drug Market – Kensington (Philadelphia)🇺🇸
Note: This video is for educational purposes. I know there are many Kensington videos out there, and that’s why I’ve avoided this …
Of all the articles I’ve made in the world, from the slums of India to the hoods in Karachi, Pakistan, for some reason, this experience hit me the hardest. There’s a lot to process here. I’ve seen poverty much worse than Kensington, but I’ve never experienced such an abandonment of humanity. Buddy is doing amazing work. Let’s hope we’re at the bottom here and things start moving in the right direction. Thanks to all of you who participated in this article! You’ve helped open our eyes. Buddy never asked for it, but if you like what he’s doing, you can donate here: therockphilly.org/. Like any donation, do your research first; I can’t be responsible for where the money goes. ► 🎥 More Behind the Scenes articles: petersantenello.com/ ► 📝 My Free Weekly Newsletter: bit.ly/3HC36EH ► 👕 Merch: innercircle.petersantenello.com/collections/all
I am not a Christian, but seeing what Buddy is doing moved me. Imagine seeing your hometown went from working class neighborhood where people don’t lock their doors and turn into a dystopian nightmare. Instead of moving out, he chose to join the ministry and help those lost souls on the streets day after day. People like Buddy are doing God’s work!
Thank you so much church family! i was living on the streets of Kensington,July 27th 2022 I walked into Rock ministry went to a Christian Program out in Orrington Maine, today i’m free from the bondage of drugs and alcohol.Only threw Gods grace and Mercy did I have the courage to walk inside that wonderful place to get help!, Thank you Joe our addictions ministry,just one of many wonderful outreaches. That God made possible at Rock ministry for a 57 year old woman who’s family gave up all hope in. Then God said,watch this! today I live in Florida just celebrated 2 yrs ! Thank you Jesus! Buddy, Craig, Sharon especially Lizzy! and how could I ever forget Joe Joe! Kensingknights4life!
Im born and raised in Kensington and i made it. I heard of the rock ministry for a long time. Buddy your faith in Jesus is so strong. I use to go to church at trinity reformed episcopal church at F and Allegheny and i went to boy scouts at simpson memorial methodist church. It is sad to see this happening. Buddy I want to meet you and see if I can help
My son Jerimiah 36, died 2 1/2 years ago . He had 88 days clean. For some reason he went out & bought some crack. His heart gave out. I found him in my kitchen. He struggled for so long. I tried everything to help him. I feel like I failed my son. The grief is horribly overwhelming. But he had 88 days clean, & Im so incredibly proud of him for that. I miss him, so much. I am sending prayers to all the addicts there, & everywhere.
I was on the streets of Kensington on and off for 8 yrs. prostituting and spending the money on heroin. I knew I was sick of living that life but was struggling to get out and get clean. Thank God one night I got arrested and spent a few days in jail on State Road. I prayed everyday Please God get me out of here and I’ll change my life. 5 days later I was released on a year probation and I kept that promise and immediately got into drug and alcohol treatment and got clean. Now instead of going down Kensington for drugs I go down to give out food and talk with people how recovery is possible!! 10 years clean and never plan on going back. I hope to work with The Rock one day too they are an amazing organization in Kensington who truly care and help as much as possible. Thank God for Buddy and everyone who is working to make Kensington a better place for the people who live there and trying to help addicts as much as they can🙏🏼💜
Another heroin addict in recovery here. 12 years addicted, 7 years now clean. It’s so great to see an uplifting and positive story from Kensignton. Like all addicts I was a hopeless mess and luckily I hit my rock bottom before I was dead. Now I am a proud father and married man. There is a way out of this mess.. but we have to be real about it. There is no easy way.
I must admit, I am truly impressed with the work THE ROCK ORGANIZATION is doing. We need more places like these in every urban city. People need an outlet where they can socialize in a positive environment. And with the HELP OF GOD!!! All is possible. GOD BLESS The Rock Organization keep up the good work.
I’m a Christian from the UK and I’ve seen most of your articles Peter but this one broke me to tears. I’m so shocked that the drug problem is so high and easily accessed in America. I pray those that can help quickly and make the area safer for the community and children. Buddy and his team are doing an incredible job despite what they’re facing each day. Thank you for sharing this and having those conversations. ❤❤❤
My parents go to church with Buddy and have gotten involved with worship and security. He’s an amazing man who just wants to help a community that he knows can be better than what it is. He’s taking kids off the street and giving them a future. He’s experienced the lows of addiction and knows there are ways out
Wow, The Rock and his friends working to help others and their belief and making a beautiful safe place is admirable!! I’m not a church person and I like how they said you don’t need stained glass and a building to have a relationship with Jesus! On point! It’s not my belief but they way they talk about their convictions is by far the nicest and non obnoxious I have ever heard. Bless them for their work.
You hit the nail on the head Peter: this is the abandonment of humanity. Where is the leadership? Where is common sense? Where is the humanity? It gives me hope to read these comments, knowing that there’s so many of us out here who do care, and who are concerned, and who are angry. Thank you for giving these issues the attention and authenticity they deserve.
grew up with a mother who was down in Kensington most of my life caught up in heroin, it took over a decade for things to change but she went from nothing but the clothes on her back to being a homeowner, going to college, and working with lawyers. To me that is living proof you can go from nothing to something.. praying for that little girl whose mother left her to get drugs. i know just how that was
Recovering heroin/fentanyl addict here. I now work in recovery and have worked first hand with people from these very streets. Their stories will break your heart and motivate you to keep helping where there is a huge need. God bless everyone one of you!! We recover through Gods Grace & Mercy! Please pick that phone and get help. If you’re suffering from addiction, you are loved and you are worth it. You deserve happiness and health. Choose freedom In Christ. He will never leave you nor forsake you! 🙏🏻💜💪🏼
I work for one of the utility company’s in the city. It requires me to be in and around the Kensington area frequently. The situations inside some of the homes within Kensington is just as bad as the streets. Flea infestations, broken sewage pipes, animal feces, malnourished pets, etc. I’ve walked out of homes covered in fleas. I’ve witnessed animal abuse. It’s so shameful that this behavior has become so common. My heart breaks for my hometown.
I woke up this morning feeling a little sorry for myself. But this article reminded me of just how great I have, and have always had it. My dad died when I was 8; but my mom worked hard to give me a stable, secure life filled with opportunities. Thank you Peter for sharing this. And thanks to all of the people who are making a positive difference in these people’s lives.
I live a very quiet and low income life in the country, far removed from this situation. I have fresh air and space and feel like I’ve succeeded by getting out of a bad upbringing. But I wonder if me making a good clean country life for myself is enough. I’ve taken care of myself, but I can’t reach anyone like these guys are. These guys are soldiers and angels.
He is the father figure so many need. This should be in every city regardless of how good or bad the situation is! The culture and system they set up is amazing. Everything from council meetings and recovery and an entire “life package”, clean shower, clean cloths and a team of people to show you the way! I’m not gonna say I regret not being an addict, but if I was, I’d have been on the first bus ask them for my new life package
I work as a Drug and Alcohol counselor about 25 miles from this part of Philadelphia. Many (and I mean most) of our patients have housing insecurity and come from, or have spent significant amounts of time in Kensington. I have been saying to anyone who will listen what Buddy lays out at the 43 minute mark. We need systems in place to support these people that go beyond just detox and 12-step meetings. It’s heart breaking and at the same time immensely gratifying to have conversations daily with people trying to better themselves and their lives. Thank you for shining the light on this issue.
Started with weed at 16, about 10x a day till age 19, where I decided I needed help and checked myself in to rehab. Everyone was laughing at me, after all, they were in for heroine and crack, but the “stoner kid” needed help. One old man, with no teeth sat me down, told me not to listen to them and told me he started just like me and only wished he had the chance I had. This struck home for me. He helped me fight all the way, we became pretty close. He was clean 6 months when he left, he seemed fine, he OD’d and died 3 weeks later. I have not touched any drugs ever since. Never. I did struggle with alcohol a little, but fighting to be a good dad and be healthy for my kids first, is what saved me. In French we say “si jeunesse savant et si Vieillesse pouvait”, if the youth knew and if the elderly could. Stay away kids…just stay away, there is no shortcut. Want a high? Go to the gym, tell someone you love them, save a life. It takes time, it’s painful, it takes courage, but SO IS LIFE. No shortcuts.
I grew up and lived in Kensington my whole life. It has gotten so much worse since I was a kid. I have three kids now and they can’t even go outside without stepping over needles, a drug dealer on every corner, prostitutes walking up and down the street, and people on drugs sitting EVERYWHERE. It’s sad. Thank for you showing this. I pray that this changes. I love your articles !
My six years sober from opiates is 10/7…… I’ve never seen anything as helpful as someone in a position to help who is a recovering addict. That’s incredible. We NEED people who understand to help the rest of us recover. It’s really true that in some of the darkest places that you see life & light. Good people exist.
Awesome article Peter! I too was planing on doing a vid in Kensington but avoided it because of how much coverage there is already of the area. You did a fantastic job though I must say and probably the best vid I’ve seen of this area. Thanks for always keeping it real and not being a clout chaser and thank you for inspiring me to make vids myself.
Peter, this might be one of your best articles I’ve ever seen. Simply because you’re covering the bright spot in such a terrible place. Plenty of people drive up and down and walk up and down those streets making articles of the atrocities but your article shows that there’s hope there. The Rock and it’s people are such a breath of fresh air.
Peter thank you. I am a retired law enforcement professional and currently a professor in crime and public policy in Los Angeles and randomly came across this piece. I will be using it as a policy paper topic. Thank you so much for your work. We need this to highlight what is happening and how our policies as compassionate as they may be on paper are failing at helping our most vulnerable populations.
I am on a Lost in Kensington page and saw alerts saying that sweet little girl is missing and not supposed to be with the parents. Idk what the alternative is because many people are saying the foster system will be just as bad. I’m praying the mom can seek treatment and clean up at least get the kid off of those streets because it’s not safe for her. I live right in Camden county 20 mins to Philly and I’ve been through Kensington and it’s just wild like an alternate universe and I’m An adult it still shocks me. But this kid is in the heart of it all:( perusal her sitting there fidgeting flossing her teeth you can just sense the anxiety she was feeling. Broke my heart. I appreciate the work you do I wish there would have been some resolution maybe at least get her a meal and into the church talk through some options idk you can tell the man in the green wanted to go back and do more. It’s a very helpless seeming situation I pray she is okay and not too traumatized and I pray for recovery for her parents too. Not to mention she’s been out there a year let me just say in this article Kensington is looking wayyyy better than it usually does. I want to emphasize it looks SOOO much better. Typically there’s tons more bodies on the ground and people in a stupor and wayyyy more trash and needles everywhere so I can’t imagine everything she’s seen over the past year prior to the clean up and whose to say how long that’ll last before it’s trashed again . I hope it’ll have a lasting effect.
I’ve saw a lot of articles of Kensington but never have I saw one where this pastor and his ministry the Rock has been talked to or about that let’s me know they are doing it for the views and money thank you Peter for finding this gentleman here god bless him and his team and god bless you to Peter 🙏🏼🙏🏼💯
I was raised in the Christian church with a Catholic dad and Methodist mom and none of my experiences in the Catholic or Protestant churches taught me to love my neighbor the way Buddy and his organization exemplify in this article. I’m agnostic but I see Buddy as a true man of Christ and his principles. I just donated and will continue to donate until Kensington and those fallen into addiction are given a second chance. Excellent work, Peter.
By the grace of God and the help of Jesus Christ I got out of Kensington in 2016 & got clean. I never thought it could get worse but here we are. Something needs to be done for the families & children that live there. They deserve better because 90% of the addicts roaming them streets aint from Philly. Either rehab or lock them up but this can not continue. There is plenty of help out there for drugs & alcohol addiction. May God have mercy on Philadelphia 🙏
I was homeless on the streets of Brooklyn originally from the Bronx! I’m at honorable veteran and finally got hooked up with the VA and got my life back together and I’ve now been clean for eight years! Got myself off methadone maintenance that I was on for nine years of my life, did it less than six months! It’s possible if you want it, but you have to wanna do it for yourself! We do recover!!
You’re correct. I used to clean up needles in neighborhoods and abandoned houses with squatters who slept there and did their drugs there. We would offer food and if they wanted it a ride to get help. No one ever took us up on it. We just let them be and move to the next house. The cops know they’re there. They pretty much leave them alone as well. The individual has to make the choice. Nothing can be forced on them. I am alcoholic so I went through the same thing and eventually went and got help.
Peter, I have been a fan of your work for years. I am a nurse in Philadelphia and a single mother of two teenagers. I know this article focuses on Kensington but the fact of the matter is many neighborhoods in Philadelphia are suffering from these problems of violence and drug addiction . My 15 year old son was jumped by six boys a few months ago leaving the park in my neighborhood . Three months ago a kid on a bike was shot by to kids in front of my home in South Philly. At the hospital where I work we are dealing with horrible problems as a result of violence and drugs. Philadelphia is suffering and we need help. I am thankful for places like The Rock. Thank you to Peter and everyone at The Rock for sharing this amazing article. The depiction of our situation is 100% accurate. I am so grateful for the work you do.
Peter that was incredible!!!!!! I cried and prayed for all the lost souls. I see articles of those people and I want to go save them. Thank you!!!! It’s not a religion brother it’s a relationship!!!!!! Jesus is using you to get his messages out. Show them!!!!!!! I’m praying too for your salvation Peter, Gods got his hands on you. God Bless you!!!!!
From my experience in addiction and working in recovery, addiction changes our brain chemistry and we go back into survival mode. Addiction effects 5 major systems of our brain function. In addiction, we do not have the ability to make sound decisions. It’s a struggle when someone doesn’t agree to the help or chooses to leave rehab. Imo
Enjoy all your articles of America. My mother’s relatives came to the Kensington Ave area around 1850 from German/Poland border, immigrant Jews escaping the hassles of life for Jews even then. They changed their last name, converted to Catholism and prospered on Kensington Ave as Merchants. I have a sister, baby that died & buried at St Mary’s graveyard. My grandfather lost his business in the depression relocated to Carbondale PA. He often spoke of the life of Germans, Polish, Russian and Irish that all called Kensington their home and how prosperous they all made…such a shame to see this..
This is after the cleanup, and just a few weeks ago, Kensington Ave looked much worse. The city’s approach has been to let things deteriorate, allowing investors to buy properties at rock-bottom prices and then leave them abandoned. These speculators are waiting for the neighborhood to gentrify, all while making life even harder for the people who already live there.
Thank you Buddy and the Rock Ministry for your work & Peter, of course, for bravery to bring the heart of challenges to light. I’ll say the same is happening in NYC and its heartbreaking. Where I work in the city in Midtown and prior to the pandemic I was starting to notice a shift as I learned about the multiple methadone clinic’s in the neighborhood. Now after returning to work after the pandemic people are in crisis on every corner. How did this happen what are compounding factors that allowed us to get here in multiple cities?
As a loyal fan to your website, having watched every single one of them, this was the most agonizing article to watch. I am sickened that in the United States of America this is allowed to happen. That child. What will happen to her?! My heart is absolutely breaking. What an absolute trophy of a man Buddy is. I am utterly nauseous and heartbroken. How Buddy keeps going day after day, year after year is astounding. I hope this article brings lots of donations to help with his mission.
I am an recovering addict. Last hit of heroin I had was year 2000. Rules are exactly what they need. I can honestly say being strung out, addicts won’t want to change. They’re incapable of making that life changing choice. Then it’s the long process of recovery. With people who help them one step at a time. Every hurdle and struggle, they have that support system they can count on till they strong and finally believe in themselves. It’s a massive job.
Great article. I met Buddy at a conference recently at Calvery Chapel in Orrington, Maine that has their own drug rehab program. Buddy spoke on his work and on the challenges of people in recovery . His words were both tear-invoking and awe-inspiring. He’s a man on an amazing mission. I wish him and everyone there at the Rock great success.
During the first semester of my senior year of highschool i found out my dad was smoking crack. 2 and a half years later he overdosed on fentanyl. My anger towards him has faded and towards others that are sick aswell… Im sorry to anyone that is dealing with pain, grief, and addiction. I want you to know someone’s thinking about you, even if they don’t know you and are praying for you to make it back to the light. Godbless ♥️
Peter, the cops started sweeping the streets in Kensington a couple of months ago. What you saw today was nothing to what it has been. And is, especially on weekends. On some days you have people all over the sidewalks. And there is help but many people are too addicted or mentally ill to take the help. There are policies in place but they won’t take the help. And many of them live under bridges and in abandoned buildings there. And people come in from the suburbs on the train. Im well acquainted with Kensington. My daughter was addicted to heroine and was raised in the suburbs but commuted to the city to get drugs. She lived on the street for a couple of years before she got clean. I had her arrested twice before she decided to get clean. She’s doing great now. 18 years clean. ❤ Im not sure I agree that the needle program doesn’t work. The point is not to stop them from using with that program. The point is to keep from spreading disease. A boyfriend of my daughter’s died from reusing needles. He got a bacterial infection in his heart from unclean needle use. He was young. He might have gotten clean at some point and lived a better life. But if you get aids or bacteria that eats your heart valves etc. there is no chance.
Watched from start to finish…not a single YouTube commercial appeared!. Grew up in Phila, left in 1985. Rode the el everyday. K&A was rough back then but what the leadership in this great city has allowed is sickening. I miss the city I once remembered. Peter you are doing great work. Buddy is a saint.
This documentary was so much emotions, from seeing Kensington and the people who were zombies laying on the street, the little girl and her mom. I didn’t expect to be filled with so much hope, joy and happiness by the end. Thank God for The Rock and all of the people within the organization. What an incredible organization.
Buddy Osbourne is a great guy and a great friend of my family. Buddy was a Roofer and a boxer at one time which is how my grandfather came to know him and the rest of my family. My grandfather knew him from helping out at the gym Buddy trained at when he was younger Montco Boys Club and my grandfather being former head of Philly Building Trades was friends with a lot of Roofers Locals in the 70s and 80s. Buddy is a great guy outside of what he’s done with the Rock and Boxing. I boxed there very briefly and always admired what he has done. There isn’t a better person you could of had on about Kensington than Buddy who is actually doing as much as he can and genuinely cares. My family is all from Philly before me and my bros specfically from Fairhill/Kensington area. Buddy has a story many can admire as he turned his life around and is truly doing God’s work not to mention how the Rock is a non profit gym but churns out some of the best amateurs in the city. Great seeing Buddy still doing great and sry for the long comment but not only do both sides of my family stem from North Philly Kenzo/Fairhill but I hope things get better for this city as my family has labor and boxing history with the city and it truly hurts my heart and feel bad for the people and city struggling so bad due to my deep connection to Philly. I still love this city as my whole family has came from generations and you get great people past and present like my grandpa and Buddy who come from this city and neighborhoods.
Psychedelics saved me from years of uncontrollable depression, anxiety, alcoholism, smoking, and illicit pills addiction. Imagine carving heavy chains for a decade and then all of a sudden that burden is gone. Believe it or not, in a couple of years they’ll be all over for treatment of mental health related issues.
My son goes to college in Philly and I drove down from New York to visit with him and I wanted to take him to a great Vietnamese coffee bar/restaurant and on our way from his apartment to the restaurant he said to me, “Dad, do you know where we’re going?” I told him I know how to get to the restaurant but the point he was trying to make is that he knew we were heading to Kensington. I had no idea what I was getting into and when I drove him back to his school, still to the day, a month later, I cannot get the images out of my head as far as what I observed and what I am now perusal on this article. I can’t believe this is America and I can’t believe that the city of Philadelphia is not doing more to somehow fix this problem because this is as real as it gets and it is downright scary. Good luck Buddy and The Rock Ministry. I’m literally in tears right now. Wake up America!!
This is one of the most impactful articles I’ve ever seen. The scenes on those sidewalks are absolutely mind blowing, and taking place in an American city is beyond infuriating. Peter’s anger at these “compassionate” policies is so accurate and every voter in the country needs to see the consequences of them. Per usual, it’s the amazing work of churches and people like Buddy that make a real difference. More often than not, the government is the last entity that should be put in charge of solving a problem.
I know this one was rough for you. It was rough to watch. Brought up in addicted home then Jesus turned it around list my brother to heroine. Thought it was weakness this showed me hope . It s hopelessness. This article has put a fire under me to keep fighting darkness. It hits home. Thank you Peter. I haven’t cried over your articles yesterday. This was the first
the city recently just “cleaned” up the streets of kensington and it still looks like that, should’ve seen it during covid it looked like the apocalypse, i used to go to a skatepark in that area and it was one of the few places i was genuinely worried about my safety. so many nice restaurants and parks in neighboring areas like fish town and northern liberties
There’s a whole YouTube Kensington Avenue genre, honestly a lot that shows even a worse picture. It’s a poster for social decay in the U.S. Grateful for this work. There’s different brands of Christianity, some which seem to bring out the worst in people, some the best. Like we read in the book, you will know them by their fruits. This man and his work are clearly bearing good fruit.
I’m 19, and I’ve dedicated my life to Jesus. I’m in tears for that mother and her daughter. I’m genuinely speechless, we need to start interceding for those who are addicts. I live in NYC and I see this but not as bad as this, and it’s so easy to be judgmental and complain about these things but i’ve learned to see them the way Christ sees them, the same way God created me, God created them in His image. I learned the importance of not saying things like “That could never be me” without Jesus, we’re nothing. If I have Jesus, I have it ALL. Those very people on the street can be us, so if you’re reading this comment declaring curses over suffering, plea the name of Jesus over their life. The name of Jesus alone, heals ALL.
56:00 As a Washington State resident, this man is confused in that it was Oregon that did the “drug decriminalization and reversal”. That hasn’t happened here, but that aside it doesn’t look too dissimilar from Kensington the way Seattle has been trending the last 19 years in stretches of the downtown area.
I’m from Trenton, NJ 45 min from Philly, I’m VERY WORRIED about that child!!! Buddy & Rock Ministries from the bottom of my heart tears rolling down my face THANK YOU!!! I’m going to make my way to personally thank u for what you’re doing!!! Peter Santanello, thank u for doing ALL YOUR articles!!!! Peter IS CORRECT DO NOT SHOW UP IN THE KENSINGTON AREA WITH CAMERAS!!! Why? BC the big time drug dealers, gangs etc WILL TAKE CARE OF U & NOT IN A GOOD WAY if u understand!!! Please DO NOT go shoot your own articles!!!!
I was saddened at the beginning of this article. By the end I was smiling. What a beautiful gift they are giving to the community. The ministers smile and joy is infectious. How could you not want to be better when you’re around him. So happy you spoke with the city councilman. We have so called experts calling for these open drug policies. What qualifies them? We should all have ex addicts working in government on these topics. They are the true experts and like he said, the last thing you do is enable an addict. Those other people mean well but don’t have a clue. It’s like saying you know how to be a parent because you read books. Doesn’t work that way
My sister was an addict. One year ago was her funeral. Fentanyl overdose. My son and I found her after she had been dead for awhile. I wish this on no one. It did get me back to church. I love my church family. I have visited Philly twice and fell in love with the city. Kensington is just open about the problem our whole country faces. Drugs steal your soul. It’s as if Satan himself takes a piece every time an addict gets high. Without a soul, you’re not human. Probably why it felt so eery being there.
I am a PA native, about 2 hours north of Philly. I got shipped down to South Florida during the onset of the houseing crisis, and also the height of illigal doctors writing scripts. When I escaped back to PA. I could only find heroin, and someone brought me down to Kensington to score, I was never more scared in my life, and I did 3 years in State Prison. It’s a shame. 10 years clean btw. God Bless.
Although I’m not a Christian, I’m Buddhist, I have so much respect for Buddy and The Rock! THIS is how we as people of faith must conduct ourselves. Being directly in society, supporting our communities and sharing the truth with people… which is the limitless potential each person has no matter what cards they’re dealt. We could either look away, or help folks transform their suffering. That’s the true testament to our beliefs. Thank you Peter for shedding light on Kensington.
Peter, I am a long-time follower of yours, I was shocked when I saw this article popped up on Kensington, I was born and raised right where you filmed, I burried 2 brother’s & a sister from drugs. Peter, you are the man to show up in Kensington. I managed to join the Teamsters Union at a young age, and that was my escape. Kudos to Buddy & the Rock ministries. Buddy, my Kenzo bother. I will be sending a donation. P.S. when I was in the 4th grade I fell off McPherson Square Library roof and broke my leg..lol
I can definitely relate to being burnt out by seeing that every day. I lived and worked in Kensington for four years. I could feel myself becoming increasingly angry walking and driving through the streets. When I quit my job the best part was never having to drive down front street ever again. They are literally doing gods work. And I pray for all the poor innocent children that live in those communities.
I can attest to the testimonies presented here. I am not from Kensington, but from the UK. In 2015 Jesus saved me from my drug addiction which I had for ten years. Nine years later I am doing a PhD in theology at the University of Edinburgh. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I could be doing what I am today during the bondage of my addiction. A relationship with Jesus is not some psychological trick one plays on themselves. It is a supernatural experience that comes from knowing that the world we live in is guided by spiritual laws and principles laid down since creation itself. Blessings to Buddy and everyone at Rock Ministries – the true works of Christ testify to God’s true nature!
Just found your website and have been binge perusal episodes from the first with Booker T to Appalachian, to The 80yr old herb grower, to the drug problems. Our Country is in a mess but you still see the good in people! Every life is precious, and everyone needs help sometime in their life, some more than others. We need to look out for our fellow Human Beings! Treat others as you wish to be treated. Trust In Jesus! He is the answer, not religion! Mant churches have gotten to pious, to upedty and more worried about ” looking good”, just surrounding theirselves with just fellow church members and not out helping others or welcoming in others because they look different or have had a troubled past. Our future, Our children are lost, are struggling, and need help. Need good family morals and just being involved with their children’s everyday lives. Spend time as a family & cutting phone, internet, article games etc.. Go outside, play ball, take a walk, and play a board game. Thank you for showing us the Real World! God Bless You from South Carolina USA ❤❤❤🇺🇸🗽🇺🇸🗽🕊🙏🏻✝️👍
Dude. This is sad. Who’d guess? Why would this be an option? I want to help. I’m not working right now. No money. Living at my parents house. Been to rehabilitation several years. I can pray for you until I can do more. Bless this pastor. Thanks for making us aware Peter. Dude. You rock no pun intended. I know this organization will receive more help as a result of this article. This will change the lives of hundreds of broken people. Thank you so much buddy.
Peter, thank you for showing areas in America that truly require change. I’ve worked in the human services field for 30 yrs. and counting with various populations. The most challenging population were the chronically homeless. Majority were substance abusers. Having God with me is what kept me going. God bless you Peter and your family. 🙏🏼♥️🙏🏼🇺🇸🌟
I’ve viewed many of your articles, and enjoyed them all. This one ( of my home city) touched my heart the most. I love these, my fellow citizens and continue in prayer for them and my city government, and now also for your guide in the Rock t-shirt. Thanks for filming and handling this neighborhood with some sensitivity, and not just as hopeless zombies.
If someone was lying in the road after a traffic accident, they would be scooped up and given immediate treatment. Shouldn’t people unconscious through drugs not similarly be scooped up and taken to (firm) rehab treatment, given they’re incapable of taking rational decisions. Do we not owe it to these poor souls to save them from themselves, even if that requires a firm loving hand?
Thank you for not posting addiction porn, poverty porn or other demonizing human articles. I’ve never complimented your work. Thank you for all you do. Empathic, compassionate, educational, eye-opening approach to content is an exclusive quality only produced you proved!! You are a great human. When content creators receive awards, you should the first recipient. The awards should all be named in your honor. Facts ❤
I just donated to The Rock ministries. I wasn’t a Christian for 38 years of my life, but then in 2019, I gave my life to Jesus. I know many reading this will eye roll, believe me, I used to eye roll too. I was a militant atheist, turned atheist, then stoic for most of my adult life until I went through a mental health crisis while in the military. My stoicism didn’t prepare me to handle the stress and I was prescribed some of the worst anti-depressants and sleep medicines. I can definitely see how people fall into drug abuse, so I’m empathetic to many people in this article despite how hard it to watch. Thank God for The Rock ministry. So much hope and apostolic work being done.
I lived next door to addicts and the whole family was on drugs. They were all around me and my family. We had no choice but the move in that trailer park because I’m black and on low income. The town council believes in putting low income together with addicts and criminals. It was a nightmare those two years there. We tried to keep away from them. We kept the children in the house most of the time. When they played outdoors we would find needles and pipes on the ground on the way to school. I became friends with a neighbor who used drugs. I knew she was really a good person but the drugs made her a horrible person sometimes. She was constantly arrested. she said it’s the only way they would put her in rehab. If you’re clean they won’t help you she said. The veteran who lived next door told me he held his daughter down and shot her up and she became addicted. I treated everyone with dignity no matter who they were but the police treated me like I was on drugs too and would harass me and my daughter and her small children. Now I hear they want to put people like me back into places like this. I’m heartbroken.
Unfortunately, many of these drug addicts don’t wish to quit heroin/fentanyl. They prefer this lifestyle. However, I agree that to fix this problem rehabs should be forced upon them and they should be much longer than a 1 month detox treatment program. Otherwise, addicts all go back to using again. . It’s a vicious circle.
I was raised in Kensington in the late 80’s. I can attest to the members at Rock ministries they take the kids in from the neighborhood and teach them to box and give them hope. I moved out of Kensington in the early 90’s to Port Richmond and raised my 3 sons for 15 years and now I moved to Deleware. I’m still proud to say I’m from Kensington.
Did a father-son road trip from FL to PA a couple of years ago. Visited family and some old haunts from my childhood. My son’s a huge Rocky fan, so we did the whole Philly scene. Before we left, I took him to Kensington. He’s a college student at Univ of Florida. It was truly other worldly, like a dystopian novel. Definitely gives one a lot of perspective. Your life can take a downward spiral very quickly. Thank you, Peter, for bringing awareness to so many situations and places that most people will never know about. I most appreciate your humility and compassion. You set a good example for others.
This is a perfect example of why drugs are such a never ending problem in large cities in the United States. Everyone knows about this area of Philadelphia, EVERYONE. Why isn’t the Philadelphia police on every single block day and night in this area? Because they are in on it, guaranteed the local precinct is getting a payoff from the local drug dealers. The police in large cities aren’t there to protect and serve, they are in business for themselves. The days of Andy Griffith good guy policeman are long gone.
I have been homeless 3 times in my life starting at the age 14, sleeping under a bridge and eating outta garbage cans or stealing to survive(only food) and I had a drug problem, I pulled myself out with no help every time! These people need to stop blaming everyone but themselves. Their own actions put them there and they need to learn to hold themselves accountable, The narcissism is ridiculous. Its never their fault, it’s always someone else’s fault!!!
Here’s the thing, when people say the government needs more services, they don’t understand there are already multiple services trying to help; however, you cannot make people take the help. I worked 22 years as a probation officer. Many times people would turn down help and emergency housing regardless of the agency helping. I believe the main reason is that programs have rules. Stop using drugs, look for a job or get training, be in by a certain time, attend counseling, keep your area clean etc. Many preferred the street sadly. Of course if these programs had no rules, they would quickly devolve into crack and fentanyl dens. When drugs were criminalized, at least people got help while incarcerated or temporarily clean. The funding for those jail programs were scrapped as was many “drug court” programs etc.
Peter, I’m literally crying. I live an hour away from Kensington, in Southern NJ. On your way to Cape May. As far as I can remember Kensington has been known as the bad lands, I’m 57 years old. I’ve watched other websites on the Kensington situation. But to see that little girl waiting with a man while her mom is at the “adult store” is heartbreaking. Idk what the solution is for Kensington. I can’t imagine being a homeowner or business owner. Because literally you’re stuck there. No one wants to buy or rent a home there. Let alone start a business. The work this man Buddy is doing is amazing. God Bless him!! Kensington is in my prayers constantly!! Thank you Peter. All your articles are so informative. God Bless you Peter!!
Seeing that innocent kid in grungy clothes, innocent voice and not getting a normal childhood is heartbreaking to see. Shout-out to Buddy, he informs everyone he can help them without belittling them or forcing them. Hopefully, the lady with the kid will get her kid off the streets and into the Rock with Buddy to help her.
I’m a regular dude from Colorado, my wife and I went to that exact area to go to a pottery class and took the train up from downtown Philly. I have traveled a lot of places and I have never seen anything like what I saw there, the needles were literally everywhere, it felt post apocalyptic, it didn’t feel like real life. But as a human I felt this need and desire to want to pick up my fellow man, white, black, latin, doesn’t matter, it’s a shame nobody has done anything about it and I genuinely wish I could help.
My mom has almost 7 months sober from that place 😭🤍. So grateful. She was in that life for 40 years. She started at age 12. I had to take her there a few weeks ago to pick up her mail from Prevention Point and broke down in tears when I got in my car. Everyone was in wheelchairs with missing limbs or had their skin eaten through. It kills me (as the child of an addict), knowing how all of their families feel and how much love they have. But, I also know their view, thinking they’re not worth saving. They hate themselves more than anyone ever could.
I live in Philly and pass through Kensington regularly. Since the new mayor took office, I’ve noticed an increased police presence, which is a promising sign of efforts to improve the area. Groups like Buddy and The Rock are doing incredible work to make a difference. However, it’s hard to envision a future where Kensington fully recovers. The scale of the drug crisis and crime is overwhelming, and even with significant financial investment, the challenges are deeply entrenched. The road to meaningful change feels long and uncertain.
Peter, this article hits hard. On one hand, it’s one of my fav you’ve done. At the same time, the weight of human suffering right here in the US is tragic. And Buddy; my goodness he’s the real deal. I’m a Christian pastor who’s worked in several inner city areas. I’m thankful for people like him. He gets it and is truly doing the work Jesus would be doing if he walked our streets. Thanks for letting his heart and beliefs shine through in the article. Love your website man.
It’s not about religion, it’s about Relationship with Jesus. Beware, there are dark religious spirits that will mislead you if you’re not aware of these or have been truly taught what Jesus did or said in the Bible. When you go through addiction, you will receive the Gift of Desperation. You’ve walked through Hell on this earth long enough. You will hit your knees and cry out to God to save your life. Jesus is The Way, The Truth and The Life. 40 min mark of article. 🙏🏻❤️💪🏼
I’m agnostic but I am convinced the Rock foundation pastor finds tremendous power and reason to carry on this work because of his belief in Christ or God. It gives him and people who use the Rock foundation facilities a direction, an alternate lifestyle, something to be held accountable to and find satisfaction from within and also from a sense of community that promotes a clean and healthy lifestyle. If there is a god, I hope he and those at the Foundation are blessed and receive more funds and support to carry on this service towards humanity. As he said, no child deserves to walk through the streets witnessing this mayhem.
My 29 year old just came home to me in July from living on the streets of Nashville for a year – he has delusional schizoaffective disorder with bipolar. The delusion and paranoia make him run to get away from the voices and he chooses to be homeless. I am currently trying to find help for him in Fla. My son is so awesome- he just doesn’t see it! These folks are good people! They need to want to get better for themselves- most will, but they all deserve love, dignity, respect, and we need to keep fighting for the greater good for them.
I served Philadelphia as a an Early Intervention Service Coordinator for special needs children for five years. An Alabama girl, driving all around the streets of Philly!! I had never lived outside of the South at the time. I had never been to a 3rd world country, but driving the streets of Philly made me realize that we have areas in the USA that are 3rd world-like. Boarded up houses and people living in them. It is a shame. So thankful for The Rock ministry. I pray God continues to bless them and their services. I love Philly! There are fantastic areas. Beautiful architecture. History. And fantastic food! Hope you share more, Peter.
I’m getting ready to sell my home because of this very problem, my town is turning a blind eye to the junkies and drunks letting them get away with all sorts of crimes. Their excuse is homelessness is not a crime. What ever happened to being arrested for public intoxication? The fact they are using our tax dollars to supply drug paraphernalia to users just boggles my mind.
It’s about empathy and compassion. Not force. Addiction cannot be punished. It’s a disease and must be treated as such. Addiction is progressive and chronic, just like cancer or diabetes. We’re not locking up ppl with those diseases. Now, we’re getting into the stigma that comes with addiction. That’s a whole other episode. You don’t shame someone for getting chemo or insulin, so why are ppl so judgmental about suboxone? The meds alone will not save you. It’s the medication with the education and lifestyle changes together, that lead to success.
I am grateful for The Rock Ministry; I had been through many cities and town in the Us. This breaks my heart. I lost my husband to damn drugs. I met him while he had recovered with the help of Christian based small organization here in Columbus Ohio. I have seen how this city is getting worse with addicts and drugs everywhere. Now recreational cannabis is legalized. panhandling is legal now, while still many have felony records over the old laws. God Have Mercy.
Boxing. Parents with a troubled child, look into a gym near your area. The structure and discipline that boxing creates, the confidence, it will change their lives. I was a lost, unconfident, troubled teen. Smoking weed everyday, doing drugs, not doing schoolwork. Barely graduated high school after being expelled once. Left my parents house and went into a gym for myself. Changed everything about my life. Complete 180. The confidence it brings, feeling and looking good, it will fix everything. I know it might seem intimidating at first, but it’s not the 80’s anymore like we watched on movies. These gyms aren’t going to beat you up day one. 95% of them are extremely friendly people trying to fix themselves the same way you are. I just swear upon it so much, if you yourself seem lost, or your child is, please look into it.