Vinner Scott, Program Director for the Pearl River and Hancock Counties Mississippi Tobacco-Free Coalitions (MTFC), addressed the Pearl River County Board of Supervisors to introduce the coalition’s mission and seek support for tobacco-free initiatives.

The MTFC, funded by the Mississippi State Department of Health’s Office of Tobacco Control, aims to prevent youth tobacco use, reduce secondhand smoke exposure, promote cessation services, and eliminate tobacco-related disparities.

Scott highlighted several key programs:

• “Catch My Breath”: An evidence-based curriculum designed to equip students with skills to resist peer pressure and media influences related to e-cigarettes.
• Monthly Awareness Presentations and Advocacy Activities: Engagements aimed at educating the community about tobacco-related issues.
• Freedom from Smoking: A cessation program targeting residents in multi-unit housing and low-income adults.
• Merchant Training: Training sessions to ensure businesses comply with tobacco laws, including the Tobacco 21 (T21) legislation.

The coalition also participates in national observances:

• Great American Smoke-Out: Held on the third Thursday of November, this event encourages tobacco users to abstain for a day, promoting cessation efforts.
• Take Down Tobacco Day: Scheduled for April 1, the coalition will host a booth at the Spring Festival in Picayune on April 4-5, located at the corner of Goodyear Blvd and Main St, to engage with the community.
• No Menthol Sunday: Observed every third Sunday in May, this initiative promotes health equity by addressing the impact of menthol tobacco products, particularly within faith communities.

Scott concluded by seeking the board’s support to transform Pearl River County into a healthier, tobacco-free community.