In Oklahoma's rural communities, neighbors help neighbors. The Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) fosters that spirit of support by funding grants and programs that create real, lasting change — from a trike track in Drumright to a greenhouse in Muskogee. These efforts are paving the way for a healthier future in Oklahoma.
Here are four ways TSET is creating healthier communities across the state:
1. Making a Healthy Difference in Your Community
Communities across Oklahoma are using TSET Healthy Incentive Grants for Communities to create spaces that promote healthy living. The town of Lahoma used TSET funds to build a walking trail around the town park, while Amber used the funds to construct a new community basketball court.
Do you have an idea to improve health in your community? TSET Health Incentive Grants for Communities provide funding to help municipalities implement initiatives for tobacco-free environments, healthy food access and physical activity opportunities. These grants have been used to fund:
- Walking trails and outdoor fitness areas
- Community gardens
- Playground enhancements
- Tobacco prevention initiatives
Learn more about TSET Healthy Incentive Grants for Communities
2. Inspiring Activity and Healthy Eating in Schools
Schools are a critical space for developing lifelong healthy habits. Zion Public Schools used a TSET grant to install ADA-compliant playground equipment. North Rock Creek Public Schools purchased kitchen equipment to improve access to healthy meals and Newcastle Public Schools built a thriving community garden.
The TSET Healthy Incentive Grants for Schools empower districts to adopt and implement best practices in tobacco-free environments, nutrition, physical activity and employee wellness. Schools across Oklahoma have used these funds to:
- Install water refill stations
- Update playground equipment
- Start school gardens
- Purchase PE equipment
- Develop health education programs
3. Encouraging a Tobacco-Free Environment
Since 2003, the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline, a program of TSET, has received over 600,000 registrations in their efforts to quit tobacco, earning national recognition for its reach and impact. In 2024 alone, residents from all 77 counties contacted the Helpline for support.
The Helpline offers FREE resources, including:
- One-on-one Coach support for navigating triggers and tough moments
- Patches, gum, or lozenges to curb nicotine cravings
- Encouraging texts and email support
- Web-based tools and resources
- Specialized support for pregnant women, new moms and SoonerCare members
These resources are helping Oklahomans quit for good and build healthier futures.
4. Bringing Health Care to Rural Communities
Access to health care is not always easy, especially in rural communities. Through a grant to the Oklahoma Health Care Workforce Training Commission (HWTC), TSET supports the Oklahoma Medical Loan Repayment Program, which recruits physicians to underserved communities.
In 2024, 42 physicians joined rural communities across Oklahoma, providing care to thousands of patients. Since the program began, these doctors have made over 650,000 visits possible — a testament to the vital role they play in keeping rural Oklahomans healthy.
These programs and grants are more than just investments in healthier spaces — they are building the foundation for generational change across Oklahoma. To learn more about how TSET can help your community thrive, visit Oklahoma.gov/TSET.