$199 Million in Recovery Act Prevention Funds Awarded to States

Public-health programs to reduce smoking are among the targets of $119 million in awards made to the states under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced on Feb. 5.

The Communities Putting Prevention to Work funds focus on efforts to decrease smoking, reduce obesity, increase physical activity, and improve nutrition. “Our goal through these statewide projects is to help make healthy choices the easier choices for all Americans, no matter where they live,” said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. “When we improve obesity-related and tobacco policies, we make it that much easier for people to eat right, to get more physical activity, and to avoid or stop smoking.”

The money was awarded to states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and six U.S. territories. Funding will go towards smoking-cessation quit lines, media campaigns, and special initiatives. Awards will range from $50,000 to $2.5 million.