San Diego Smoke Free Project

San Diego Smoke-Free Project is a program of SAY San Diego a non-profit organization working in San Diego County since 1971.

San Diego Smoke-Free Project’s long-term goal is to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS), by focusing on 2 policy goals:

• Smoke-free multi-unit housing complexes: Work with landlords, managers, apartment management companies and city officials to develop smoke-free policies for multi-unit housing complexes to reduce exposure to SHS.

• Smoke-free adult residential care facilities: Work with adult residential care facilities in San Diego county including; domestic violence shelters, social rehabilitation facilities and drug and alcohol treatment facilities to promote cessation services and the adoption and implementation of voluntary nonsmoking policies.

Our communities are combating tremendous health issues related to tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke and poor housing conditions directly impact the health of children, seniors and their families in all areas of San Diego. The most common health problems associated with exposure to secondhand smoke are asthma, cancer of lung, mouth, stomach, among others, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, mental health issues (stress, anxiety, and anger), etc. The most vulnerable individuals in our community, the elderly and children, are most impacted by exposure to secondhand smoke.

Our project is focused on working with the community to develop and strengthen relationships with local collaborative and community groups including youth and parent groups, schools and adult residential care facilities to bring together a diverse group of individuals and organizations that will advise staff on project activities and outcomes. Participants will learn about tobacco prevention, cessation services in San Diego County and policy changes that can be adopted to make lasting change. We will also work together to develop safe and healthy environments. Together we can make a positive long term impact in the lives of all San Diegans.

San Diego Smoke-Free Project invites individuals interested in tobacco control, prevention and education to get involved, call now and learn how you can participate!