A Quit Kit is a care package that contains items to encourage, soothe, and distract those who may be trying to stop vaping, reduce substance use, or change any compulsive/unhealthy behavior. 

The idea of a Quit Kit was developed last fall, when the student members of the Arlington Students About Prevention were brainstorming potential projects to support their peers. 

The students received grant funding from a MassCall3 Grant through BSAS (Bureau of Substance Addiction Services) to fund the purchase of items needed to make the first round of kits. The hope is that the first 35 kits will find good homes and necessitate the distribution of more kits in the community. 

Quit Kits are contained in a clear zip pouch with bright piping and a colorful logo. Inside are hard candies, gum, a card with a QR code to resources, stress balls, fidget toys, encouragement cards and more. The bright logo was designed by ASAP Club leader Grace Zhu.  The resource card was created by Kira Pontes. 

“Our team has worked diligently, identifying challenges regarding our peer’s mental health and brainstorming fun ideas to help others unwind,” said Zhu.  “When we settled on the idea of the Quit Kits, we hoped that anyone interested could pick up a kit—no questions asked—and use all the parts of the kit to help alleviate stress and feel more motivated. We hope to be able to create more of these kits for anyone in need and continue to spread awareness for youth mental health and substance use.” 

Arlington Students About Prevention, or ASAP, is advised by Kim Visco, Director of Health and Wellness, and Karen Koretsky, Prevention Services Director. 

Koretsky added, “Quit Kits are yet another example of our students’ great solutions-based work.  They take a public health approach in collecting data, identifying a problem, and developing a solution to address that problem. Their concern for their peers' physical and behavioral health inspires us all.”

The kits are now available in the Arlington High School library, guidance offices, and nurses' offices where teens can ask for one anonymously.  They are also in the Robbins Library Teen Room. The team hopes to expand their distribution sites to other youth-serving agencies and businesses in town. 

For more information on the project, on becoming a distribution site, or to request a Quit Kit, contact Karen Koretsky, Prevention Services Director 781-316-3193. 

ASAP Club members Eli S., Grace Z., Judah A., Sophie R.M., Kanon Y., and Swaga J. created Quit Kits to support peers with healthier options and encouragement.