Merritt’s smokers who need a little extra push to drop the habit are in luck, as the BC Lung Association will be awarding $250 cash a smoker who can quit for a single day.
Tobacco-Free Tuesdays is the name of the program started last year by the BC Lung Association, which encourages smokers to take a day-long break from puffing, for a chance to earn some cash.
“The biggest hurdle for many smokers is getting started. Tobacco Free Tuesdays takes away that barrier — it helps remove the doubt and anxiety just long enough that people are able to prove to themselves that they can quit,” says Richie Gage, BC Lung Association volunteer director for Merritt.
According to stats provided by the association, B.C. has the lowest smoking rate in Canada — only 14.3 per cent of the adult population smokes.
Still, Gage encouraged those who want to kick the habit to give Tobacco-Free Tuesdays a go.
“If you know someone who could use a bit of an extra nudge to help them quit smoking, refer them to Tobacco Free Tuesdays at www.quitnow.ca/contest,” says Gage in the press release. “There’s no catch, this challenge is all about helping to turn a plan into action, and a whole new smoke-free life!”
