Grand Rapids, Mich. is embracing the “Dry January” challenge, where participants abstain from alcohol for the entire month of January. The challenge was started by British charity Alcohol Change UK in 2012 to promote a society free from alcohol’s harm.
Local business “More or Less: NA Bottles and Beers” is capitalizing on the trend, offering non-alcoholic beverage alternatives to cater to everyone, whether sober or not. Co-owner Chad Clark aims to provide an inclusive space with products that cannot be found elsewhere, including NA wines, beers, and seltzers.
Research suggests key tips for succeeding in Dry January include removing temptation by keeping alcohol out of the house, creating a support group, and finding non-alcoholic substitutes. Clark emphasizes moderation rather than abolition, stating most customers still consume some alcohol despite visiting his store.
The challenge resonates with Clark personally, who initially attempted it for a month but soon extended it to six months. Many customers have reported success and even continued the challenge beyond January. Clark’s store has become a valuable resource for those seeking support in their sobriety journey.
As the city joins forces with others worldwide, one thing is clear: Dry January is gaining momentum in Grand Rapids, offering residents an opportunity to reassess their relationship with alcohol and cultivate healthier habits.
Source: https://www.woodtv.com/news/grand-rapids/grand-rapids-store-promotes-healthy-start-to-2025-with-dry-january