CRESTVIEW, FLA - Tobacco Free Florida in Okaloosa County joined forces with local community members and organizations on April 20, for a successful cleanup event at Old Spanish Trail Park in Crestview. The event coincided with Earth Day, aligning efforts to support initiatives that address the harmful effects of tobacco use on our environment.

The cleanup, which commenced after the conclusion of the 5K Run 4 Health event, attracted multiple participants eager to contribute to the beautification of Spanish Trail Park and raise awareness about the impact of tobacco waste on our community. Volunteers gathered from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., engaging in various cleanup activities and discussions aimed at fostering a tobacco free environment.

Throughout the cleanup, participants collected waste materials, providing a visual representation of the detrimental effects of tobacco use on public spaces like Spanish Trail Park. This visual demonstration aims to advocate for tobacco free parks initiatives within the City of Crestview, encouraging decision makers to prioritize public health and environmental sustainability. The success of the cleanup serves as a testament to the power of community collaboration and grassroots advocacy in promoting tobacco prevention and environmental stewardship.

Moving forward, Tobacco Free Florida in Okaloosa County remains committed to advancing initiatives that prioritize the well-being of Crestview residents and the sustainability of our natural resources. Future park and beach cleanup events in Okaloosa County will be organized where we'll work together to promote tobacco free spaces and reduce tobacco litter. By collaborating, we can create cleaner, healthier environments for everyone to enjoy. Let's come together to protect our parks and beaches for generations to come.

If you’re interested in these benefits, Tobacco Free Florida can help. Contact your local Tobacco Free Florida representative to learn more at 850-344-0667 or visit TobaccoFreeFlorida.com/get- involved.

About Tobacco Free Florida
The Florida Department of Health’s Tobacco Free Florida campaign is a statewide cessation and prevention campaign funded by Florida’s tobacco settlement fund. Since the program began in 2007, more than 295,000 Floridians have successfully quit using one of Tobacco Free Florida's free tools and services. There are now approximately 451,000 fewer adult smokers in Florida than there were 10 years ago, and the state has saved $17.7 billion in health care costs.

To learn more about Tobacco Free Florida’s Quit Your Way services, visit TobaccoFreeFlorida.com or follow the campaign on Facebook at Facebook.com/TobaccoFreeFlorida or on X (formerly Twitter) at Twitter.com/tobaccofreefla.

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