DHH Awards Tobacco Cessation Grants to Community Partners

The Department of Health and Hospitals’ Tobacco Control Program recently awarded $330,000 to 10 community programs across the state.  These grants will be used to prevent youth tobacco use, promote cessation, eliminate second-hand smoke exposure and reduce tobacco disparities among various populations.

The grants were awarded through two programs funded by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  The grants of $30,000 – $35,000 were awarded through a competitive process.

The Statewide Community Partnership Grant provided funding to one community partner in each of the nine regions in the state to promote cessation and provide education about the dangers of tobacco. Recipients for fiscal year 2008-2009 are below.  (For details on specific service areas, see the attached chart.)

• Open World Family Services, Inc., of the Greater New Orleans Area hosts quarterly community wellness days to offer health care resources in Hurricane Katrina affected areas.
• The Joy Corporation of the Capital Area works with substance abuse prevention, education, youth leadership and development.
• The Tangipahoa Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council provides tobacco and drug prevention, education, resources and support services.
• The Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council for South Louisiana located in Houma works to prevent and reduce tobacco and other drug addiction, particularly among children, and builds conflict resolution skills.
• Southwest Louisiana Area Health Education Center of Lafayette and Lake Charles works to improve health status through access to information, education and health services.
• Campti Community Development Center in Natchitoches Parish promotes healthy communities and healthy lifestyle choices.
• Gibsland Youth Community Resource Center in Bienville Parish provides education and social programs for youth and adults that promote positive and healthy choices. 
• Empowering Communities of America, Inc. in Monroe works with businesses, community organizations and schools to provide education and materials to prevent illegal substance and tobacco use.

The Regional Community Capacity Building Initiative Grant provided funds to two groups to address health related disparities among the 18-24 year old, straight-to-work population. Recipients for fiscal year 2008-2009 are:

• The Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse in the New Orleans area works to prevent alcohol and substance abuse and promotes safe communities and healthy individuals and families.
• Men of Vision and Enlightenment, Inc., in Lincoln Parish works to change institutional, governmental and community policy and encourage lifestyle changes among adults and youth to reduce the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.