News and Events

The Tobacco Free Partnership Wants YOU to Volunteer!
by Beth Siebert
March 9, 2021

How old were you when you tried your first tobacco product?  Did someone warn you not to?  Did you quit or are you a life-long tobacco consumer? The Tobacco Free Partnership primary mission is to preserve and protect the health of the citizens of Indian River County through promoting tobacco-free norms. We are a coalition of caring volunteers who build alliances with businesses and educate the public. 

Currently, the Tobacco Free Partnership is focused on limiting youth access to addictive products through tobacco retail licensing. Federal law mandates tobacco products can’t be sold to anyone under the age of 21 however, Florida Statutes has not been updated, therefore, the federal law cannot be enforced by local and state agents. We are working diligently with policy makers in Indian River County to educate on the benefits of a local licenses for all vendors to protect our children from the dangers of these products and uphold local retailers to a higher standard.

Why is this important?  According to the Florida Youth Tobacco survey, 1 in 4 Indian River County youth are currently using an electronic cigarette. By 18, 90% of lifelong nicotine users have already started. These number are preventable.

Tobacco Retail Licensing reduces children’ and young adults’ access to these addictive products. It gives them time to grow up and realize the only thing that belongs in their longs is air. The Tobacco Free Partnership primary mission is to preserve and protect the health of the citizens of Indian River County.

How can you help?  We’re looking for policy makers, businesses, and volunteers to join our partnership. We only ask for 5 volunteer hours a month building alliances and educating the public.  If you would like to join us, please contact us at info@tfp-indianriver.org or (772)577-3701.

Your support could save a life.
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