WHO: American Heart Association, Sanctuary Farms, University of Pennsylvania and Project HOME Healthcare Services
WHAT: North Philadelphia Blood Pressure Screening, Education and Referral Initiative Kick Off
Throughout the summer, residents of North Philadelphia are invited to participated in this free community health initiative every Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00 am – 3:00 PM.
The AHA, Sanctuary Farms, University of Pennsylvania and Project HOME Healthcare Services are working together to support heart health in the community by providing:
- Free blood Pressure screenings by UPenn nursing students
- Free locally grown, heart healthy produce from urban garden Sanctuary Farms
- Blood pressure management programs by Project HOME Healthcare Services
- Blood pressure information and education by the American Heart Association
WHEN: June 28, 2022, 10:00 – 11:00AM Photo and interview opportunities with community leaders and residents
WHERE: Sanctuary Farms, 2337-2347, W Berks St, Philadelphia, PA 19121
WHY: The prevalence of high blood pressure in African Americans in the United States is among the highest in the world. Hypertension leads the causes of heart disease and stroke-related deaths among Philadelphians, accounting for 3,417 lives lost in 2019. In the Sharswood neighborhood of North Philadelphia, individuals are disproportionately impacted by hypertension. Sharswood is both a low-income and predominantly African American neighborhood.

Theresa Spencer is award-winning communications strategist and public relations professional. She is a creative thinker and innovative in her approach to create collaborative opportunities for others and most importantly, can motivate people around her to turn their ideas into reality. I design and drive communications and branding strategies to advance the American Heart Association objectives, initiatives and programs.