HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Feb. 22, 2024 – In South Florida, people who live in under-resourced neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale can expect to live an average of 30 years less than those who live just seventeen miles away in the more affluent Sunny Isles Beach community. This gap is nearly equivalent to the difference in life expectancy between low-income and high-income countries. The science tells us that the physical conditions in which people live explain in part why some are healthier than others[1].
To sustainably remove the social and economic barriers preventing access to equitable health for everyone everywhere, the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, is opening its Social Impact Funds to entrepreneurs and organizations across South Florida. These Funds exist to accelerate access to capital for evidenced-based, sustainable, entrepreneurial solutions within communities that help people live longer, healthier lives. Local organizations actively working to break down social and economic barriers to health equity including economic empowerment, healthy food access, housing, recidivism, access to quality healthcare, transportation and educational opportunities are encouraged to apply for funding.
A virtual “town hall” information session was held on January 24, where over 170 community members and American Heart Association staff discussed local challenges and opportunities related to ensuring access to equitable health across South Florida. The team collaborated to ensure available funds are focused on addressing the greatest local needs.
“We realize that for many small to mid-size nonprofits, entrepreneurs and local startups, a lack of access to immediate and substantial funding are barriers to their growth and success,” said Marisol Garcia, executive director for the American Heart Association in South Florida. “This funding opportunity will give community-based social enterprises the ability to build sustainable solutions dedicated to improving the cardiovascular health and well-being for residents across South Florida.”
Since its launch in 2018 and initial community investments in 2019, the American Heart Association’s Social Impact Funds, including the Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund, have supported more than 100 local social enterprises across the country. Learn more about the American Heart Association Social Impact Funds here.
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Additional Resources
- AHA Social Impact Funds aim to improve health disparities in under-resourced communities
- AHA President’s Advisory: Structural racism causes poor health, premature death from heart disease and stroke
- AHA’s 10 Commitments: advancing cardiovascular health for all including identifying and removing barriers to health care access and quality
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 Media Inquiries:
Christina Vitale, christina.vitale@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
[1] Magnan S. Social Determinants of Health 201 for Health Care: Plan, Do, Study, Act. NAM Perspect. 2021.