Ledge Light Health District has announced that it is offering free programs to help people who live or work in southeastern Connecticut quit tobacco. The goal of the Tobacco-Free LLHD program "is to remove common barriers people face by offering quit aids, coaching and social support at no cost."

"The program uses the American Lung Association’s “Freedom From Smoking®” curriculum to help participants quit tobacco in seven weeks," the release states. "Free nicotine replacement therapy will be offered to participants. FDA approved prescription medication like Varenicline (Chantix) will be made available to participants, should they prefer to use it, if their insurance doesn’t cover it."

“Quitting tobacco is a huge step towards improving your health and preventing disease. Ask any former tobacco-user, it’s the best decision they’ve ever made,” LLHD Health Program coordinator and tobacco treatment specialist Carolyn Wilson said in a statement. “Sometimes it takes several attempts to be successful but creating a plan, seeking support and developing a set of strategies is the best course of action. It’s important to never give up on the journey to becoming tobacco-free.”

The program is made possible through a partnership with Uncas Health District and funding is from the Preventive Health & Health Services Block Grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The first program of the year will begin Jan. 2 and run through Feb. 13. The “Quit Day” is Jan. 23. Individual counseling is available by appointment if people can’t attend the group program. At least two more group programs will be offered this year.

More information and registration are available by contacting Wilson at (860) 446-3062 or at cwilson@llhd.org.