Auburn Gresham Unveils Innovative Blood Pressure Kiosk: A New Era for Heart Health with the American Heart Association

The new kiosk strives to equip Auburn Gresham residents with resources for tracking heart health and tackling health inequalities.

CHICAGO, December 12, 2024 — The American Heart Association (AHA), a worldwide advocate for healthier lives, has announced today the installation of a new blood pressure kiosk at a pivotal organization promoting community health in the Chicagoland region. This project demonstrates the AHA’s dedication to addressing health inequalities by positioning blood pressure kiosks in underserved neighborhoods to empower residents with accessible tools for managing their heart well-being.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate this notable initiative is scheduled for Wednesday, December 18, at 1 PM at the Auburn Gresham Healthy Lifestyle Hub, situated at 839 W. 79th Street, Chicago, IL 60620. This occasion welcomes community members, offering a chance for residents, local leaders, and health advocates to observe this significant advancement in promoting heart health and wellness. Representatives from both the Greater Auburn-Gresham Development Corporation (GAGDC) and UI Health – Mile Square will attend to emphasize the significance of this partnership and its effects on the Auburn Gresham area.

The new blood pressure kiosk is located within the Healthy Lifestyle Hub, a groundbreaking redevelopment endeavor led by GAGDC. This transformative project has revitalized a long-abandoned office building situated in the heart of the Auburn Gresham neighborhood, reinvigorating the 79th & Halsted commercial corridor. Having been empty for over two decades, this prominent edifice now stands as a beacon of hope and a hub for community health and development.

“We are excited to provide this resource to the Auburn Gresham community,” expressed Brittany Walsh, Executive Director of the American Heart Association. “High blood pressure is a primary risk contributor to heart disease and stroke, and making accessible tools like this kiosk available is an essential step in empowering individuals to monitor and take charge of their heart health.”

The kiosk offers complimentary, user-friendly blood pressure monitoring, along with educational resources to assist users in better comprehending their readings and obtaining referrals for additional medical care. This endeavor aligns with the AHA’s mission to be an unyielding advocate for a world filled with longer, healthier lives.

“Greater Auburn Gresham Development is honored to collaborate with the American Heart Association, Healthy Chicago Equity Zone, UI Health, and other partners for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the Higi Station. Accessibility cultivates awareness, which paves the way for action,” stated Kathy Welch, Executive Administrator, GAGDC. “This Higi Station symbolizes self-care and advocacy for enhancing quality of life. We express our appreciation to the American Heart Association for their collaboration and their ongoing efforts to fight against heart disease – the leading cause of mortality in many of our communities.”

Community members are invited to participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony and explore the resources available at the Healthy Lifestyle Hub. Together, the American Heart Association, GAGDC, and UI Health – Mile Square are devoted to promoting health equity and nurturing a healthier future for everyone.

 

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is an unwavering advocate for a world with longer, healthier lives. Committed to ensuring equitable health across all communities, the organization has been a premier source of health information for more than a century. Supported by over 35 million volunteers worldwide, we finance innovative research, advocate for public health, and provide vital resources to save and enhance lives affected by cardiovascular diseases and strokes. By driving breakthroughs and implementing validated solutions in science, policy, and care, we dedicate ourselves to advancing health and transforming lives daily. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

 

For Media Inquiries:

Rachel Klousnitze; Rachel.klousnitzer@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org