Tobacco Education Group receives $32,167 of tobacco control efforts
JASPER – The Arkansas Department of Health Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Program has funded the Newton County Tobacco Education Group (NCTEG) $32,167.00 to continue efforts to decrease and eliminate tobacco use in Newton County. Tobacco use rates have been declining statewide, and local coalitions such as NCTEG play an integral part in preventing youth from starting and helping tobacco users quit.
“Coalitions and other grantees are a critical part of TPCP’s tobacco control strategy,” said Dr. Carolyn Dresler, TPCP director. “They act as our hands and feet in local Arkansas communities, interacting and helping real citizens and providing feedback on how we can improve our efforts statewide.”
NCTEG has experienced growth and success since its collaboration with TPCP. NCTEG has received funding since 2002. NCTEG has continued its efforts to build, implement, and refine a comprehensive tobacco control program in Newton County. NCTEG recognizes that an effective tobacco control program must have an intense, on-going focus on education and public awareness. The coalition has expanded its membership and activities.
Coalitions and partners work with local schools and businesses to hold contests, workshops and other activities that teach Arkansas youth about the dangers of tobacco. They distribute information to tobacco users about services available to help them quit, and they act as tobacco control advocates, raising awareness about the burden tobacco use places on the user, their families and all Arkansans.
With the new allotment of funds, NCTEG has developed a work plan to most effectively spend the dollars. Plans for the upcoming year include: Operation Store-Front Education for tobacco retailers about “No Sales to Minors” and product placement; cessation resources for Newton County businesses and residents; Tobacco Free Kids’ Day at the N.C. Fair; tobacco policy promotion for businesses/agencies and education for pregnant women who use tobacco.
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For more information about local coalition efforts, call 870-446-6022.
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