National Public Health Week is a time to recognize the power of prevention, the importance of community health, and the partnerships that make this work possible. Every day, public health efforts help ensure that individuals and families can live healthier, safer lives—from preventing chronic disease to improving access to nutritious food and stable housing.



This year, we celebrate the collective impact of community members, organizations, and partners who are working together to address root causes of health challenges and build stronger, more resilient communities.

Understanding how and when young people are exposed to alcohol is an important step in supporting their health and well-being. The data below offers a clear snapshot of current trends among both middle and high school students across Maine, highlighting areas where awareness and prevention matter most. Click here for a deeper look at the patterns, perceptions, and access points shaping student experiences and see how we can all play a role in supporting positive choices. 

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Check Out CHCC's Volunteer Opportunities

We are currently looking for volunteers to support our growing outreach efforts—especially in social media and communications. This is not just a chance to lend a hand; it's an opportunity to make a lasting impact on public health by amplifying vital messages, promoting essential community resources, and connecting with local audiences in meaningful ways.

Whether you're a seasoned content creator or someone eager to share your time and unique skills, your contributions will be invaluable to our cause. Join us in fostering a healthier community by reaching out to chcc@une.edu today to be part of something truly transformative!

Exciting opportunities are on the horizon! We will soon be posting several nutrition-focused positions as part of our expanding work in food-as-medicine and chronic disease prevention.

These roles will support individualized nutrition education, community programming, and innovative approaches to improving health outcomes. If you or someone you know is passionate about nutrition and community health, be sure to check our postings on the UNE website soon!

Safe, stable housing is a cornerstone of health. Our Safe and Healthy Housing Initiative is actively working to address housing-related health risks and improve living conditions across our communities.

Recent efforts include:

• Convening a regional roundtable with partners across housing, health, and social services
• Identifying key challenges and opportunities related to housing quality and safety
• Beginning planning efforts for an upcoming Housing Summit

It means homes that are free from hazards like lead, mold, and poor air quality. It means stability, affordability, and environments that support both physical and mental well-being. It also means ensuring that all community members—especially those most at risk—have access to housing that supports their health.

We look forward to continuing this important work with partners and sharing more details about the Housing Summit in the coming months.

Together, we build a healthier future—one connection at a time.

Our work is grounded in community engagement and partnership. We collaborate with local schools, healthcare providers, emergency responders, housing partners, and community organizations to create meaningful, lasting change. Follow along, get involved, and be part of the movement toward healthier communities.

Help youth make smart choices before first use with Operation Parent’s upcoming webinar series. In the first session (April 29th at 1pm), experts from Partnership to End Addiction and Boston Children’s Hospital show how to talk about meds at home including cough syrups, Adderall, pain medicine, and depression meds.

In the second session (May 6th at 1pm), Stanford REACH Lab will share ways to guide youth through ads, social media, and trends like nicotine pouches. Walk away with tips you can use and the confidence to have these important conversations as a trusted adult.

The Baby & Me Tobacco Free Program offers free, confidential support for pregnant individuals who want to quit smoking, vaping, or using other tobacco products. Participants receive one-on-one virtual coaching, ongoing encouragement to remain tobacco-free, and vouchers for baby items as an added incentive to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It’s a supportive, judgment-free resource designed to promote healthier outcomes for both parent and baby.

Coastal Healthy Communities Coalition

207-602-3589

chcc@une.edu

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