HOLLYWOOD, FL., June 17, 2024 —The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives champions health equity to provide the opportunity and resources for all South Florida communities to maintain active, healthy lifestyles.   

Through the American Heart Association’s Live Fierce South Florida initiative sponsored by CITY Furniture, the Association has made and continues to make substantial change toward equitable health throughout Broward and Miami Dade counties:

  • Adopted four facilities in Pembroke Pines and are assisting them in promoting healthier environments for local residents, including a clinic aftercare program, a community center and a food pantry
  • Donated eight blood pressure kiosks and 25 blood pressure cuffs to Broward Community & Family Health Center locations
  • Distributed heart-healthy food resources to food-insecure families and increased access to fruits and vegetables through expanded refrigeration at food pantries at Broward College
  • Donated more than 30 CPR & First Aid Anywhere Kits across South Florida

"With the support of local sponsors like CITY Furniture, we're able to create the change needed to impact the lives of those who need it most," said Marisol Garcia, executive director, American Heart Association, Greater Miami and Fort Lauderdale. "Everyone deserves the opportunity to live a full and healthy life, and supporting the American Heart Association can be the catalyst for healthy change for all. Together, we are striving to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives."

Andrew Koenig, chief executive officer of CITY Furniture, and his team have a passion for the American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers initiative. The mission of the initiative is to turn a nation of bystanders into lifesavers by teaching people Hands-Only CPR.. This sponsorship has supported the American Heart Association in helping over 5,000 adults, student-athletes, and kids learn this lifesaving skill.

“CITY is proud to sponsor and work of the American Heart Association because we know with our support they are tackling an important cause, that’s close to our hearts,” said Koenig. “Our founder, my uncle Kevin Koenig, lost his life to heart disease at 54. He was way too young and unfortunately, too many losses like that are happening to families.”

CITY Furniture also supports the American Heart Association’s #CheckIt campaign to raise awareness about the importance of monitoring your blood pressure to reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease.

In addition, CITY Furniture sponsors the Association’s #HealthyStartsAtHome campaign, to encourage people to get healthy in the comfort of their own homes. with the initiative includes tips on how to make smart food and beverage choices, healthy recipes, healthy sleep and ways to stay active at home.

“During COVID I took my health into my own hands,” continued Koenig. “I always blamed my busy schedule for not having enough time to make my health a priority. I credit my wife, Deana, for encouraging me to work and eat healthy during lockdown. I ended up falling in love with how it makes me feel more energized and productive. My kids see me taking care of myself and that inspires them to get moving and even tag along to some of my workouts. The American Heart Association really pushes you to stay on top of your health and I commend them. I’ve never felt better!”

The American Heart Association is committed to driving equitable health impact in Florida through five key priority areas: women, tobacco and vaping, patients, community impact and healthy living. Equity is always at the center of the Association’s work, and it will continue to guide the local markets’ focus into its second century of saving and improving lives.

To learn more about the American Heart Association’s impact in the South Florida market please visit, www.heart.org/florida.

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About the American Heart Association 

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.    

For AHA Media Inquiries:   

Christina Vitale | christina.vitale@heart.org  

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

heart.org and stroke.org