March 29, 2016 - The Northwest Tobacco Control Area Network (NW TCAN) wants to honour individuals and organizations that best embody the spirit of a Smoke Free Ontario as nominated by their peers.
The NW TCAN will be giving out awards on May 31 – World No Tobacco Day – to recognize local individuals and community efforts which contribute to smoking cessation, prevention and protection. The award – based on public feedback - will also recognize champions who are tobacco-wise: First Nations, Aboriginal or Metis people who honour the cultural and traditional use of tobacco.
The local ceremony will coincide with the Government of Ontario’s presentation of the Heather Crowe Smoke-Free Ontario Awards.
Residents of Northwestern Ontario are encouraged to submit their nominations by April 29 with the names and accomplishments of those that they feel are most deserving of the title.
“So much has been accomplished in this province in the past decade,” says NW Tobacco Control Area Coordinator, Dan DePeuter. “From smoking being banned in work places to the removal of the tobacco display power walls in convenience stores to smoke-free playgrounds. We’ve come a long way. Now we’d like to hear from the public who they think should be recognized as a champion and the contributions they’ve made to a healthier Ontario.”
Examples may include individuals or organizations who:
- Provide programming to help people quit smoking
- Support smoke-free spaces by developing policies to protect residents from second-hand smoke
- Deliver education, activities & programming aimed at young people to help prevent smoking uptake
- Lead a tobacco-wise lifestyle and give teachings on the differences between sacred and commercial tobacco.
If you know of a deserving individual or organization, visit tbdhu.com or nwhu.on.ca for a nomination form. Nominations must be received by 4:30 on April 29, 2016. The Northwest Smoke Free Champions will be announced and presented with their awards by the NW TCAN on May 31, World No Tobacco Day.
For further information or eligibility requirements, contact Daniel DePeuter, Northwest Tobacco Control Area Network Coordinator.
