Published On: October 6, 2016

Grant supports Central Indiana veterans, caregivers and individuals with disabilities on path to better health through Freedom from Smoking program
Blog contributed by Tessa Barnard
Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of death and disease in the United States. While more Americans are kicking the habit, 42 million still identify as smokers – accounting for 1 out of every 5 citizens. People living with disabilities face even higher instances of smoking, nearly 40% more than those who reported having no disability (CDC, 2011).
CVS Health knows promoting a tobacco-free lifestyle extends well beyond their cigarette-free stores. That’s why they’re working with Easterseals, the nation’s indispensable resource for people facing disability, to help the disability community, veterans and caregivers kick the habit for good.
“If we are to help Americans on their path to better health, then tobacco-free living must remain a top, public health priority – for people of all abilities,” said Eileen Howard-Boone, President, CVS Health Foundation. “And that path starts in a different place for everyone. Together with Easterseals, we’re engaging the populations they serve including people with disabilities, veterans and caregivers who we know want to quit, but may not know where to start.”
Through support from the CVS Health Foundation, and in collaboration with the American Lung Association, Easterseals is advancing a smoking cessation program specifically tailored to the populations it serves: people with disabilities, veterans and caregivers – all groups with higher incidence of smoking. The partnership leverages the American Lung Association’s Freedom from Smoking online program, which takes participants through modules containing tips and lessons to quit smoking.
“We’re proud to partner with the CVS Health Foundation as we help the individuals and families we serve kick the habit for good,” said Patrick Sandy, President & CEO of Easter Seals Crossroads. “It’s a true honor to be selected among the grant awardees. We hope Central Indiana families are inspired to take advantage of this opportunity.”
Easter Seals Crossroads was among six affiliates to receive this year’s grant. The grant will support local efforts to put the Central Indiana community on the path to better help.
Learn more about smoking cessation
CVS Health is a pharmacy innovation company helping people on their path to better health. Through its approximately 9,600 retail pharmacies, more than 1,100 walk-in medical clinics, a leading pharmacy benefits manager with more than 75 million plan members, a dedicated senior pharmacy care business serving more than one million patients per year, and expanding specialty pharmacy services, the Company enables people, businesses and communities to manage health in more affordable and effective ways. This unique integrated model increases access to quality care, delivers better health outcomes and lowers overall health care costs.
Learn more about how CVS Health is shaping the future of health