News

April 4, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Stephanie Uliana, Prevention Specialist
Seven Counties Services, Inc.
502-797-4625

SEVEN COUNTIES SERVICES AND MARCH OF DIMES ROLL-OUT NEW PROGRAM TO REDUCE SMOKING DURING PREGNANCY

Louisville, KY, 04/04/2007 - Healthy Beginnings, a unique approach to assisting pregnant woman who want to quit smoking, will start Tuesday, April 17th at the Golden Arrow Center for Women and Children on Shelby Street. In the next eight months, the Seven Counties Services' Prevention Division will host the free program at three additional sites in Louisville (see locations and dates below).

Healthy Beginnings offers pregnant women assistance with smoking cessation in a supportive group setting. The program combines stress management techniques, addiction information, and relaxation techniques with support and encouragement to overcome common barriers to participation and successful cessation.

March of Dimes grant funding will support the Healthy Beginnings program in many ways, including providing light meals and snacks, baby items, weekly door prizes, TARC tickets, and cash incentives for program participants. Child-care during program sessions is provided.

"This partnership supports an exciting and promising new approach in our battle against a significant health risk," says Tamela Pumphrey, Seven Counties' Prevention Division Director. "Pregnant smokers who want to quit already recognize the potential health benefits to themselves and their children. They know they can succeed, with the right help and support."

Kentucky has the 2nd highest smoking rate during pregnancy in the nation. The significant health risks involved are well established. Children born to mothers who smoke are much more likely to be born premature or of low birth weight.

Each program consists of six one-hour weekly sessions. Any women who is pregnant or post partum (up to one year) is eligible to participate. There is no fee to enroll. The program is completely free to all participants.

To enroll or get additional program information, call Stephanie Uliana of Seven Counties Services at 502-797-4625.

Seven Counties Services, Inc. is a private, non-profit corporation that provides planning, prevention, treatment, and support in the areas of mental illness, developmental disabilities, addictions, and abuse in Jefferson, Bullitt, Shelby, Spencer, Henry, Oldham, and Trimble counties. More than 1,400 clinical and administrative staff members create and deliver quality services to approximately 30,000 individuals each year. For more information about Seven Counties Services, Inc., please visit www.sevencounites.org or contact Dean Johnson, Public Information Coordinator, at 502-589-8615, extension 1197 or DJohnson2@sevencounties.org.