March of Dimes grant will fund tobacco awareness campaign

The Jasper Newton County Public Health District (JNCPHD) reports they recently were approved for a $3,000 grant from the March of Dimes, according to director Danny Brackin.

JNCPHD based their request on a study by the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston after Hurricane Rita. The study surveyed students in Jefferson County and found smoking rates were higher among students whose homes were damaged or destroyed, or if they had family or friends in that situation.

"Taking this information into account, JNCPHD will place emphasis on educating students on health risks related to tobacco," Brackin said.

Funding will allow JNCPHD to purchase the "Worth the Wait" curriculum, the March of Dimes Teen2Teen brochures, and tobacco awareness wristbands.

For more information, visit www.jaspernewston.org or the March of Dimes website.