Strengthening Hearts with the Help of the American Heart Association

It’s Heart Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health and empowering individuals and families with the tools they need to live healthier lives. Heart health is deeply connected to our mission of improving maternal and child health outcomes. Over the past two years, our partnership with the American Heart Association (AHA) has helped bring critical resources, education, and lifesaving skills directly to families across our community.

Advancing Maternal Heart Health Through Prevention and Access

Heart health plays a vital role during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Conditions such as high blood pressure and preeclampsia can develop quickly and may lead to serious complications if not identified early. Through our collaboration with the American Heart Association, we are helping families better understand the importance of heart monitoring and empowering expectant mothers to take an active role in their health.

One of the most impactful outcomes of this partnership has been the distribution of more than 300 blood pressure cuffs through our TeleStart program. Along with AHA-provided education materials, these tools allow families to monitor their blood pressure from home, recognize warning signs earlier, and seek care when needed.

This collaboration is best reflected through the stories of the individuals we serve. Brooke, a TeleStart participant, received a blood pressure cuff through the program, giving her the ability to monitor her health throughout pregnancy and feel more confident and supported during her journey.

Learn more about Brooke’s story in the video below.

Stories like Brooke’s demonstrate how access to simple tools and education can make a meaningful difference in maternal health outcomes.

Building Confidence Through Education and Emergency Preparedness

In addition to advancing maternal heart health, the American Heart Association has supported family safety by providing infant CPR training to our Healthy Families program staff. Home visitors learned lifesaving skills that prepare them to respond quickly and confidently during emergencies.

AHA also donated infant CPR training dolls, allowing families with young children to practice CPR techniques at home and strengthen their emergency readiness.

The Healthy Start Coalition and the American Heart Association share a commitment to improving health outcomes and reducing disparities within our community. By expanding access to heart health education, monitoring tools, and emergency preparedness training, this partnership supports families in building healthier futures for themselves and their children.

We are grateful for partners like the American Heart Association for their ongoing collaboration and investment in Hillsborough County families. Together, we are strengthening hearts, empowering parents, and ensuring every family has access to the resources they need to thrive.