October 2009 – The DC Cancer Consortium, (DCCC) in partnership with the DC Department of Health, has awarded the American Lung Association of the District of Columbia (ALADC) with an $850,000 grant to sustain the District’s free Quitline program, 800-QUIT-NOW, for DC residents.

Through this grant, ALADC will continue to provide the free nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and counseling program of the DC Tobacco Free Families Campaign (DCTFF). Spanish-speaking residents are still encouraged to call 202-333-4488 to access these services.

Additionally, the funds will sustain the smoking cessation efforts of the Mautner Project, an LGBTQ outreach center and Mary’s Center, a Latino health clinic, both located in the District.

“The American Lung Association of DC thanks the DC Cancer Consortium for its generous support of District residents,” says Rolando Andrewn, President and CEO of ALADC. “These funds will greatly contribute to furthering a  vital program which will significantly contribute to reducing tobacco-related illness and ultimately health care costs in the District.”

Since the launch of DCTFF in 2006, smoking prevalence in the District has dropped 20 percent, saving the District $175 million in future tobacco-related health care expenses, including $20 million in Medicaid coverage.

In addition to smoking cessation services, DCTFF will also provide technical support to community organizations and health care providers.

For more information on the DCTFF campaign, visit the website, www.dctff.info, or call 202-546-5864 ext 215.