Health dept. offers incentives to help pregnant women quit smoking

HEALTH DEPARTMENT OFFERS INCENTIVES TO HELP PREGNANT WOMEN QUIT SMOKING

JACKSON, Tenn. – The Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department is announcing a new program that will provide women and families with resources to quit smoking.

Tennessee’s G.I.F.T.S. program is now available in Madison County. G.I.F.T.S., which stands for Growing Inside Free of Tobacco and Smoking, provides support and counseling for pregnant and postpartum women who want to quit smoking. G.I.F.T.S. offers up to $300 in rewards upon program completion.

How the Program Works

Pregnant women can be referred by their healthcare provider or through a self-referral. Women attend four smoking cessation sessions. 

Following the sessions, they will take monthly breath tests at the health department. For every smoke-free breath test, participants will receive a $25 voucher that can be used for diapers, baby wipes, groceries, or other supplies. Participants can earn $25 vouchers monthly for up to 12 months.

“Women who quit smoking are less likely to have premature and low birth weight babies and reduce the risks of secondhand smoke on their children,” said LeKendria Mays, Health Promotions Coordinator. “It’s a free program that not only improves the health of your family, but rewards you financially.

A smoker who lives with the participant can also enroll in the program. If they successfully quit smoking, they earn additional monthly vouchers for the family.

For more information on the G.I.F.T.S. program, contact LeKendria Mays or Alex McHugh at 731-423-3020.

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