|
|
Tobacco coaliton
provides ‘smoke free’ support for Worth County
For several years Worth County youth have
participated in efforts to fight tobacco use. Recently, a group of
adults have joined in that effort.
The adult tobacco coalition held its first
meeting in the first week of October. In just under a month of
operation, the coalition has begun its preliminary work of finding out
which Worth County establishments are smoke free, while also organizing
the services that are available to help other local businesses join
that list.
The thought behind the formation of a tobacco
coalition comprised of adults was to provide a bit more influence and
adult-focus than the youth coalition has had in the past.
In the short time since the first meeting, the
coalition has met success, compiling a list of 64 businesses throughout
the county that are smoke free. That list includes one restaurant and
daycares, businesses and churches. The list is meant as a way for Worth
County residents who may prefer smoke free environments to know where
to take their business.
Besides its efforts to contact area
businesses, the coalition has worked to inform area businesses of
existing services that are available to help more join the smoke
free list.
It is important to note that the coalition is not working to push Worth
County businesses to become smoke free, but is instead providing help
and resources for those who wish to become smoke free or even those who
wish to simply try operating smoke free.
Services available include free smoking
cessation programs for employees, free signage, help drawing up
policies and input from smoke free businesses.
Any business that would like to be added to
the smoke free establishment list, would like more information about
the tobacco coalition or would like to learn more about becoming smoke
free may contact Shana Butler at Worth County Public Health at 324-1741.
The list of smoke free establishments may be
found on Page 5 in this weeks edition of the Anchor.
|
