Banner - University Family Care is placing advertisements at Tucson bus stops to promote substance misuse awareness, an initiative that brings critical behavioral health information to city streets.

The project, called the SAFE (Substance Awareness for Everyone) Bus Stop Initiative, is placing ads at up to 10 Tucson bus stops. The idea is to provide touch points of vital health information to public transit users.

“We want to make healthcare easier and more accessible,” says JoAnne Kautzman, who is part of the Integrated System of Care team for Banner Plans & Networks. 

“We’re not waiting for people to find us. We’re reaching out to make it easier for them to find services.”

The ad says:

Safe Withdrawal.
Real Recovery.
Both are Possible.

The ad features a QR code linking to assessment tools and information about Banner's comprehensive behavioral health services.

"We believe that access to care begins with access to information," says the Integrated System of Care team.

"Bus stops represent democratic spaces where people from all walks of life naturally gather. By placing educational resources in these locations, we're removing barriers and ensuring that everyone – regardless of their circumstances – can learn about substance misuse prevention, recognize warning signs and understand their treatment options."

The initiative focuses on three critical areas:

Prevention through education: Eye-catching displays provide facts about substance misuse risks, healthy coping strategies and the importance of early intervention. Materials are designed to be digestible in the few minutes someone might wait for their bus.

Access to assessment: Individuals can quickly scan the QR code to access confidential screening tools that help determine their level of care needs, which may include – outpatient therapy, intensive programs or inpatient treatment available through Banner's behavioral health services.

Pathways to care: Information directs community members to appropriate resources, where trained professionals provide guidance and support for those seeking help.

“This grassroots approach reflects Banner Plans & Networks broader commitment to making health care easier and more accessible,” says the Integrated System of Care team.