On a Saturday in September, the Second Antioch Baptist Church Food Pantry in West Philadelphia became more than just a place to pick up groceries. It transformed into a vibrant hub of health, connection and community empowerment.
During the pantry’s regular distribution hours, residents were greeted not only by volunteers handing out food, but also by a team of health advocates from two powerful initiatives: Team Up to Take Down High Blood Pressure and the Together for West Philadelphia Health Access Links (T4WP HEALS) program. Their mission? To bring essential health services directly to the community, with a special focus on high blood pressure awareness and improving access to care.
Health Screenings Meet Heartfelt Support
Volunteers from Second Antioch, trained by the American Heart Association of Greater Philadelphia, offered free blood pressure screenings to residents. Launched last fall, the Team Up to Take Down High Blood Pressure initiative is supported by Penn Medicine and Temple Health. But the support didn’t stop there. For those needing help navigating health insurance, scheduling doctor’s appointments or overcoming barriers to care, community health workers from the HEALS program were on hand to guide them.
These health advocates played a vital role as they helped residents understand their blood pressure numbers, answering questions, and connecting them to ongoing care and resources. It was a beautiful example of what happens when trusted spaces and familiar faces come together to support wellness.
More Than Groceries: A Path Forward
The atmosphere was electric. Conversations flowed, questions were asked and lives were touched. Residents left with more than just bags of food. They walked away with knowledge, encouragement and a renewed sense of control over their health.
This event was a shining example of community-centered care in action. It showed how collaborations among the Association, local organizations and health systems can make a real difference, especially when they meet people where they are.