Wald Houses Residents Take Down Tobacco

More than 180 residents gathered at Wald Houses on March 31 for a Take Down Tobacco Day event focused on community, connection, and health. Hosted by Educational Alliance, in partnership with Smoke-Free NYCHA, the event brought together residents and partners for an afternoon of education, resources and direct support, and conversations about living smoke free. 

Take Down Tobacco Day is a national day of awareness led by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids which aims to expose the tobacco industry’s predatory practices while empowering communities to build healthier futures. 

Smoke-Free NYCHA staff emphasized the importance of on-the-ground events that meet residents where they are, noting that these efforts support the program’s goal of reducing exposure to secondhand smoke while connecting residents to meaningful health resources.  

“Events like this are essential, because many residents may feel nervous or intimidated about seeking support at formal centers,” said Smoke-Free NYCHA Senior Liaison Shetara Turner. “Bringing services directly into the community into spaces where residents feel safe and comfortable encourages greater engagement and increases the likelihood that individuals will access available resources. Residents were also encouraged to take action and were provided tips on how they can be smoke-free superheroes at their development.” 

“This event was important to our team, because we want to show our neighbors and community members that our space is a space in the community for everyone,” said Sela Redmond, Director of Prevention and Wellness Services for Educational Alliance. “We can support them in many different aspects of their life.” 

Additional partners included Weill-Cornell, Jobs-Plus, NYC Health Department, NYC Smoke-Free (Public Health Solutions), Henry Street Settlement, Ryan Health, NYCHA’s Office of Public-Private Partnerships, and Girls Club (which offered information and support to residents).  

Calling all smoke-free superheroes! Are you interested in hosting a smoke-free event at your development or want more information on NYCHA’s Smoke-Free Policy? Please contact smoke-free@nycha.nyc.gov or 212-306-8282.