Smokers are once again being offered financial motivation to kick their tobacco addiction.
As part of National Non-Smoking Week, the Middlesex London Health Unit is encouraging those looking to quit to sign up for the Ultimate Break it Off Challenge. The challenge is a joint effort by Health Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society to get young adults to butt out.
Participants are offered cash incentives of $1,000, $500, and $250 for quitting smoking, staying smoke-free, or supporting a friend on their smoke-free journey. Those interested in taking part in the challenge have until February 6 to register at breakitoff.ca. Draws for cash prizes will take place on March 20.
“Every January we talk to people who are either trying to get tobacco out of their lives, or are planning to make a quit attempt. It’s important to remember that while quitting smoking can be hard, the payoff of improved health and well-being is worth the effort,” Linda Stobo, manager of chronic disease prevention and tobacco control for the health unit, said in a statement. “If you’re ready to quit, there are supports available to help you make it happen.”
Health units across southwestern Ontario have compiled inspiring stories from ex-smokers across the region as a way to assist others in ditching the cigarettes. Dubbed "Start Your Quit Story", the campaign on Facebook includes success stories, tips for quitting, and a list of service providers.
Anyone looking to quit smoking can also access free supports through Telehealth Ontario’s quit smoking program at 1-866-797-0000, online at www.smokershelpline.ca or by texting iQuit to 123456.
National Non-Smoking Week runs through January 25.