The SOL Project

10/21/2026

We can’t keep chasing the next to***co threat. It’s time to change the game.

A new national study found that girls ages 15–17 are va**ng at higher rates than boys, with regular va**ng among girls increasing from 4.9% in 2021 to 7.8% in 2024.

This is a reminder that the commercial to***co industry continues to create new challenges for our communities. As one product becomes less popular, another can take its place keeping generations of young people at risk of ni****ne addiction and death.

The To***co Endgame is about more than responding to the latest va**ng trend or to***co product. It’s about addressing the root of the problem by working toward a future free from commercial to***co addiction and harms.

We cannot keep playing catch-up while our youth are exposed to the next generation of addictive products. We must move beyond reacting to new threats and work toward lasting change that protects our communities for generations to come.

Read the study here: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2026.4918

***coEndgame ***coPrevention

10/20/2026

Sacramento and Stockton residents, YOUR voice matters!

Take our survey to share your thoughts on to***co availability in our community. This is your chance to be heard and help shape a healthier future for everyone.

Follow the link or the QR code to take our survey today and make your voice count! https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8433704/2-E-4-Endgame-Opinion-Survey-

10/20/2026

🔥🚭 October is Fire Prevention Month! To***co smoking products are a hazard and can create fire risks in and around homes.

Smoke-free housing policies can support safer, healthier living environments for residents, families and property owners.

Want an educational workshop or presentation? 📧 [email protected]

10/15/2026

Growing up in the generation where anti-smoking campaigns were at their peak, we learned the harms of smoking and how the industry was targeting us to get new generations of smokers. Cigarette use was at an all time low amongst youth.

Now, new emerging products like vapes are on the rise. But we have the power to make change like we did in the past. Except this time, we can stop the industry for good.

The To***co Endgame means we don’t have to accept smoking-related disease and death as inevitable. Our communities deserve to be free from the harms of commercial to***co.

If you want to quit or know someone who does, visit KickitCA.org or text QUIT SMOKING to 66819.

***coEndgame ***co

10/13/2026

SOL Project joined the Healthy Kids Extravaganza on Sept 12 at Wackford Aquatic Complex in Elk Grove! With help from SacCity College student volunteers Liniyah and Aidan, we connected with residents and collected valuable feedback.

🏠 Live in an Elk Grove apartment, condo or townhouse? We want to hear from you! Take the SOL Smoke-Free Living Survey at: https://bit.ly/SOL-smoke-free-living-survey

10/09/2026

🚨 BLACK MOMS — WE NEED YOUR VOICE! 💕🤰🏾

Are you Black, pregnant OR a mom with a baby 6 months old or younger? The Breathe for Two research project wants to connect with YOU!

Your experiences and voice can help us create real-world education and practical solutions designed to support healthier Black moms, babies and families. We are recruiting now, so don’t wait! 💗

👉🏾 Interested? Complete the Breathe for Two Interest Form today at: https://bit.ly/breathe-for-2-interest

Please SHARE with a pregnant mom or new mother who may qualify! 💕👶🏾

10/07/2026

💨Oct 7th is California Clean Air Day! Clean air matters outdoors AND inside our homes. The SOL Project is working to educate communities about secondhand smoke, thirdhand smoke and healthier smoke-free housing.

Today, make a commitment to cleaner air! 💙

Learn about Clean Air Day at: https://www.cleanairday.org/

10/07/2026

10/06/2026

Saving Our Legacy: African Americans for Smoke-Free Safe Places is proud to be recognized by Heluna Health as a 2026 Overcoming Challenges to Achieve Success Award winner! The honor recognizes SOL’s exceptional dedication and resilience in continuing to support and serve communities despite significant challenges.

When a $60,000 budget reduction threatened program efforts, The SOL Project did not stop. The team worked together to raise $14,000 in sponsorships, partnered with UC Davis to secure a research grant, and obtained a $100,000 Quit and Thrive award to continue advancing its mission.

Two of SOL’s five staff members, Valarie Scruggs, Project Director for Empowering Local Communities, and Anissa Adams, Community Engagement Coordinator for Advancing Momentum, traveled to Southern California to accept the award on behalf of the entire team at Heluna Health’s September 29 celebration in the City of Industry.

The recognition included a beautiful crystal award, certificate, and special gift bag.
This recognition reflects what can happen when challenges are met with resilience, partnership, creativity and an unwavering commitment to community.

Thank you Heluna Health for recognizing SOL!

10/06/2026

SMOKE-FREE HOUSING BENEFITS EVERYONE!

Residents want clean air. Property owners want healthy buildings and clear rules. Smoke-free housing policies can help do BOTH!

The SOL Project is working with communities in Elk Grove, Citrus Heights and unincorporated Sacramento County to build awareness and support for healthier smoke-free housing. 💙

🚭 Trying to quit? FREE support is available at KickItCA.org.

📣 Need educational materials or want The SOL Project to present a workshop to your organization, church, residents or community group? Contact us—we’re ready to help!