The American Heart Association (AHA) has made a generous donation of 1000 first aid kits to combat heart diseases in the Indianapolis area. This donation, totaling $225,000 from the Lilly Foundation, is aimed at reducing cardiovascular risks in residents of the 46202 and 46222 zip codes.
The initiative is part of a larger program that seeks to improve the health and well-being of individuals living in communities at higher risk of cardiovascular diseases due to elevated rates of diabetes, obesity, poverty, high blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Over the next 15 months, four local organizations – Eskenazi Health Center, First Samuel Church, Shalom Health Care Center, and Women In Touch Ministries – will each receive 250 first aid kits.
These kits include blood pressure cuffs for individuals to monitor their own blood pressure, pill organizers for medication management, and health information on various topics in both English and Spanish. The organizations, collectively serving around 100,000 people in the specified zip codes, will also utilize the AHA’s free health lessons from the “Empowered to Serve” program to educate individuals on reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes through healthier eating, increased physical activity, cholesterol control, and diabetes management.
Dr. William Gill, President of the Indianapolis Board of the American Heart Association, emphasized the importance of these organizations in providing healthcare access to those who may not have regular access to traditional healthcare or primary care physicians. The program aims to empower participants to enhance their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors towards health, ultimately leading to longer and healthier lives.
As the AHA celebrates its centennial in 2024, the organization remains committed to building a world with longer and healthier lives for all individuals. Through collaboration with various organizations and the dedication of millions of volunteers, the AHA funds innovative research, advocates for public health, and shares resources to save lives. With a century of history and significant achievements, the AHA looks towards its second century of impact, striving to promote health and hope globally.
For more information on the American Heart Association and its initiatives, visit heart.org, connect on Facebook, or contact 1-800-AHA-USA1. For media inquiries, please contact Tim Harms at tim.harms@heart.org. For public inquiries, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).