Local churches commit to being tobacco free

Blytheville Parks and Recreation Director Elroy Brown, State Representative Monte Hodges and local area ministers from eighteen area churches met at First Missionary Baptist Church Monday afternoon to discuss making their church properties "smoke free".

Each church committed to implementing to Tobacco-Free nicotine delivery system Church Ground policy for the overall health and welfare of its members. Tobacco use will not be permitted within church buildings or anywhere on their church grounds. This policy will apply to all employees, members, and visitors attending events at their churches. As a church, each will also work to provide information about the risks of tobacco use and the benefits of quitting to all their church members.

In return for the pledge, each church is given free "tobacco free zone" signs to be posted in highly visible areas inside and outside of their building, including the sanctuary, parking lot and lawn areas. Churches also will provide tobacco education literature and material to church employees, members and visitors. Additionally, they pledge to remind members about the tobacco free church grounds policy during announcements and in their church bulletins.

thenry@blythevillecourier.com