The Communities of Excellence in Tobacco Control grant awards were announced last week, with good news for the Texas County Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) program.
On Friday, Texas County TSET was awarded operation and program funding to cover the next five years, receiving up to $250,000 per year.
"Starting July 1, we will be working under the TSET Healthy Living grant," Texas County Tobacco Control Coordinator Kayla McCarter said. "Lots of money over these next five years will be distributed."
In the past, the TSET program encouraged public entities, schools and businesses to move tobacco-free environments.
Guymon Schools have received $15,000, and the City of Guymon received $26,000 under the grant. Other schools and communities are working toward certification.
Now, the program will tackle tobacco use and obesity issues through encouraging healthier lifestyle choices, including nutrition and fitness education.
The first year will see $204,000, with a potential to increase to the full $250,000 each year.
The TSET Healthy Living Program is overseen by the Texas County Coalition and is housed at the Texas County Health Department.
For more information on the TSET Healthy Living Program, contact Kayla McCarter at (580)338-8544.