Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital has been awarded a grant from March of Dimes to support it’s Comprehensive Tobacco Treatment Program (CTTP), helping continue the fight in San Bernardino county against use of tobacco products during pregnancy.

“We are pleased to have received this grant,” said  Truphosa Otianga, DNP, executive director of patient services for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. “CTTP has been a prominent and influential component of the San Bernardino county public health system for more than 11 years. This grant will not only help us continue delivering education that could potentially change the outcome for many mothers and children, but also take our program to areas that are geographically distant from vital tobacco cessation resources.”

March of Dimes awarded the grant of $24,900 to partner with Children's Hospital CTTP in a combined mission to fight for the health of mothers and babies.

“The program has a long track record of success in helping pregnant women quit smoking,” said Elizabeth Williams, regional director of marketing and communications for March of Dimes. 

“Since smoking during pregnancy is a significant risk factor for preterm birth and other poor birth outcomes, making the program’s services more available to women in the high desert areas will contribute to our goal of reducing the preterm birth rate in that area.”

CTTP offers a free six-week program to help expecting mothers stop use of any tobacco products both during and after their pregnancy. While learning about the harmful effects of tobacco, mothers are empowered by the program, earning resources such as free diapers, xylitol gum and support from perinatal health specialists.

CTTP is widespread in the community, offering programs and resources in Fontana, Bloomington, Rialto, Loma Linda, San Bernardino, Victorville, Apple Valley, Barstow, Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, Hesperia, and Twentynine Palms.