County approves interlocal agreement for Youth Tobacco Prevention Program

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The Thurston Board of County Commissioners has given the Interlocal Agreement (ILA) with Capital Region Educational Service District (ESD) 113 the thumbs-up to implement the Youth Tobacco Prevention Program.

This collaborative initiative aims to curb the initiation and usage of tobacco, cannabis, and vaping among the youth in Thurston County, says Population Health Program Manager Alicia Hughes.

The newly signed contract, 6105-IA-02200, allocates $85,000 from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.

According to the staff report, these funds will support a range of strategies designed to prevent and reduce the usage of these substances by local youth.

Public Health and Social Services staff from the Community Wellness and Disease Control and Prevention Divisions will spearhead the program.

They will work closely with local school districts, community organizations, and community members to identify prevention needs, promote available resources, and ensure that policies are conducive to preventing and mitigating the use of tobacco, cannabis, and vaping products by young people.

An integral part of the program involves engaging youth and encouraging them to identify and develop strategies that positively influence their environments concerning substance use.

The services provided under the contract align with the Thurston County Public Health and Social Services Strategic Plan's external goal of fostering conditions that support the health and well-being of individuals and families within the community.

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