COLUMBIA, S.C. – The American Heart Association and the Ritedose Corporation are joining forces to enhance community health by donating water-filling stations to the Rapid Shelter Columbia. This initiative represents a significant step towards promoting heart health and sustainability within the local community.
The ribbon cutting ceremony for the new water stations is scheduled to take place on August 26 at 194 Calhoun Street in Columbia. The event will kick off at 9:30 a.m. (ET) and will include various activities aimed at educating residents on the importance of heart health.
Prior to this donation, shelter residents relied on cases of unrefrigerated bottled water for hydration. The need for a more sustainable and accessible way for residents to stay hydrated was evident. The donation from the American Heart Association and Ritedose will not only provide water stations but also reusable bottles for the residents.
Johnasten Cooper, Homeless Services project coordinator for the City of Columbia, expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting the importance of promoting health and well-being among shelter residents. Cooper stated, “Their donation of water stations is more than just a gift; it’s a lifeline that promotes health and well-being among our residents. Together, we are making a tangible impact, ensuring that every resident at Rapid Shelter Columbia has access to clean, refreshing water—a vital resource for heart health and overall wellness.”
Proper hydration is essential for heart health, as it helps the heart pump blood more efficiently through the blood vessels to the muscles. Lizzie Tankersley, executive director of the American Heart Association, Midlands, emphasized the organization’s commitment to advancing health equity and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy healthier lives. Tankersley stated, “Finding a way for these residents to have something we take for granted so often is an initiative we are both proud of and grateful to be a part of.”
The donation from Ritedose comes on the heels of the company being recognized by the American Heart Association as the #1 Field Day company in the nation for 2023. This collaboration between the American Heart Association, Ritedose, and the City of Columbia Homeless Services underscores their shared goal of improving community health and well-being.
As the ribbon cutting ceremony approaches, residents of the Rapid Shelter Columbia can look forward to a more sustainable and accessible way to stay hydrated. The provision of water stations and reusable bottles not only promotes heart health but also reflects a collaborative effort to make a positive impact on the lives of shelter residents.
Impact of Hydration on Heart Health
Proper hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining heart health and overall well-being. According to the American Heart Association, staying hydrated helps the heart pump blood more effectively through the blood vessels to the muscles. Dehydration can strain the heart and lead to various health issues, emphasizing the importance of access to clean and refreshing water.
The donation of water stations to the Rapid Shelter Columbia will provide residents with a sustainable and reliable source of hydration. By eliminating the reliance on unrefrigerated bottled water, the new water stations offer a more environmentally friendly and convenient solution for residents to stay hydrated. The inclusion of reusable bottles further promotes sustainability and encourages residents to prioritize their health and well-being.
In addition to the physical benefits of proper hydration, the donation of water stations also symbolizes a commitment to improving the overall quality of life for shelter residents. By ensuring access to clean water, the American Heart Association, Ritedose, and the City of Columbia Homeless Services are making a tangible impact on the health and well-being of the community.
Hands-Only CPR Demonstrations and Blood Pressure Education
In addition to the donation of water stations, the ribbon cutting ceremony at Rapid Shelter Columbia will feature Hands-Only CPR demonstrations and blood pressure education sessions for residents. These activities aim to empower residents with essential lifesaving skills and knowledge to respond effectively in emergency situations.
Hands-Only CPR is a simplified form of cardiopulmonary resuscitation that focuses on chest compressions without the need for mouth-to-mouth ventilation. By teaching residents this technique, the American Heart Association and Ritedose are equipping them with the skills to potentially save lives in the event of a cardiac emergency.
Blood pressure education sessions will provide residents with valuable information on how to monitor and manage their blood pressure effectively. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a significant risk factor for heart disease and other health conditions. By educating residents on the importance of maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, the organizations are empowering them to take control of their heart health.
The inclusion of these educational sessions underscores the comprehensive approach taken by the American Heart Association, Ritedose, and the City of Columbia Homeless Services to promote heart health and overall well-being among shelter residents. By providing access to clean water, teaching essential lifesaving skills, and offering valuable health education, the organizations are making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.
As the ribbon cutting ceremony approaches, excitement is building among shelter residents and community members. The donation of water stations and the planned educational activities represent a collaborative effort to enhance community health and well-being. Through initiatives like these, the American Heart Association, Ritedose, and the City of Columbia Homeless Services are demonstrating their dedication to improving lives and promoting heart health for all.
In conclusion, the partnership between the American Heart Association, Ritedose, and the City of Columbia Homeless Services highlights the importance of community collaboration in promoting health and well-being. The donation of water stations, along with Hands-Only CPR demonstrations and blood pressure education sessions, represents a multifaceted approach to improving heart health and sustainability within the local community. By working together, these organizations are making a positive impact on the lives of shelter residents and underscoring the value of access to clean water, essential lifesaving skills, and health education.
