News

A front-page article in the Sunday Boston Herald (January 31, 2010) featured Boston Mayor Tom Menino's announcement that the city is working toward smoke-free public housing in the next few years.  The Herald's interviews with residents show them to recognize the health effects of secondhand smoke and to be overwhelmingly supportive of the initiative.

The Massachusetts Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Program's (MTCP) staff and programs have assisted Boston in shaping its policies, educating tenants, and working with housing management.  MTCP will continue to partner with the city as it moves forward with its plans.

Help is available for residents of Boston's public housing who want to quit smoking.  Those who subscribe to MassHealth can get medicines and counseling to help them quit at copays of only $1 to $3.  All Massachusetts residents can receive free guidance for quitting smoking at www.makesmokinghistory.org.  Free phone counseling is available through the Massachusetts Smokers' Helpline at 1-800-Try-to-Stop (800-879-8678). 

Smoke-free public housing is the latest in a series of efforts by the City of Boston to protect its residents against secondhand smoke; Boston was a national leader in banning smoking in all workplaces, including restaurants and bars.

Nearly a quarter of a million Massachusetts children are exposed to secondhand smoke in their homes.  Elders and people with disabilities are at risk in multi-unit housing.  MTCP educates families on the effects of secondhand smoke and creates partnerships to advance smoke-free policies.  Smoke-free environments also motivate smokers to quit and increase their chances of staying free of tobacco.