The American Heart Association will donate 1000 first aid kits to four local organizations as part of a $225,000 donation from the Lilly Foundation to reduce cardiovascular risk in residents of zip codes 46202 and 46222.
This program is part of an initiative to improve the health and well-being of people living in communities at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases due to higher rates of diabetes, obesity, poverty, high blood pressure, and cholesterol.
Over the next 15 months, Eskenazi Health Center, First Samuel Church, Shalom Health Care Center, and Women In Touch Ministries will each receive 250 kits that include blood pressure cuffs for individuals to monitor their own blood pressure. The kits also contain a pill organizer to manage medications and health information on various topics in English and Spanish.
These organizations, which collectively serve about 100,000 people in zip codes 46202 and 46222, will also use the American Heart Association’s free “Empowered to Serve” health lessons to educate people on how to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes through healthier eating, increased physical activity, cholesterol control, and diabetes management.
Dr. William Gill, chairman of the Indianapolis Board of the American Heart Association, stated, “These organizations serve people who often do not have access to traditional healthcare or do not regularly see primary care physicians. This program strengthens the ability of these organizations to be local and reliable sources of information and points of connection to services, and empowers participants to improve their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors in health, in order to lead longer and healthier lives.”
The American Heart Association, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024, is committed to building a world with longer and healthier lives.
About the American Heart Association:
The American Heart Association is a relentless force working towards a world with longer and healthier lives. The organization is dedicated to ensuring health equity in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations and the efforts of millions of volunteers, they fund innovative research, advocate for public health, and share resources to save lives. As they prepare for their second century of discovery and impact, their vision is to promote health and hope for everyone worldwide.
For media inquiries:
Tim Harms, tim.harms@heart.org
For public inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org