As of July 1, 2015, Howard Center will implement an expanded tobacco-free policy in keeping with its mission to support client health and well-being and in compliance with new State mandates for designated agencies. The organization will partner with 802Quits to transition all locations to tobacco-free facilities and to provide resources for any individual who expresses the desire to quit using tobacco. The policy will apply to all staff and clients at all locations, with the exception of clients living in Howard Center residential homes.
In making the transition to a tobacco-free site, the organization has received support from the Vermont Department of Health. Barbara Cimaglio, Deputy Commissioner of Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Programs, praised Howard Center’s efforts and said, “The Health Department applauds Howard Center’s efforts to support the wellness of their clients and staff by going tobacco-free. We are pleased to provide training and tobacco treatment resources to Howard Center and other sites in Vermont that are taking a holistic approach to addiction treatment. Tobacco is the most common addictive drug, and the research shows that treating tobacco with other addictions improves addiction recovery and mental health.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 in 3 adults with a mental illness smoke cigarettes, compared with about 1 in 5 adults with no mental illness. Howard Center Director of Information Management Laura Pearce says, “Our mission is to improve the well-being of children, adults, families, and communities, and we believe that an integral part of that pursuit is the practice and support of alcohol, drug and tobacco-free environments.”
The new policy reinforces Howard Center’s emphasis on a healthy workplace. The organization’s employee wellness program has been recognized regularly by the Governor’s Workplace Wellness award for its efforts to promote a culture of health. In addition, Howard Center has produced a Smoking Cessation Guide designed for workshop leaders to use with smoking cessation groups. The free guide is available to download at www.howardcenter.org.