SYRACUSE, NY, April 11, 2024 — With nearly 3 out of 4 cardiac arrests outside of the hospital occurring in homes, knowing how to perform CPR is critically important[1]. CPR, especially if performed immediately, could double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival[2].

That is why the American Heart Association, the worldwide leader in resuscitation science and education, and St. Joseph’s Health are adding lifesavers to the chain of survival by providing Hands-Only CPR education resources in the community through CPR & First Aid in Youth Sports™ Training Kits.

On Thursday, the Association, along with sponsor St. Joseph’s Health, presented three local community organizations with the kits. These training kits are designed for area leaders to ensure they and their community know the lifesaving skills of CPR, how to use an AED, and how to help during sports related emergencies. Each kit can train approximately 300 people per year.

Organizations receiving kits include:

  • Brexialee Torres Ortiz Boys & Girls Club
  • Magnarelli Community Center
  • Onondaga Nation Arena

While these community organizations are not solely focused on youth sports, each one serves the Syracuse community with programs for kids and young adults that involve physical activity.

“St. Joseph’s Health is dedicated to improving the health of our community,” said Meredith Price, senior vice president of Acute Operations at St. Joseph’s Health and 2024 Syracuse Heart Challenge chairwoman. “As ‘the’ Heart Hospital of the region, we know how helpless people feel then someone suddenly collapses and stops breathing. In those crucial moments before help arrives, knowledge of CPR can be the difference between life and death. Through this collaboration with the American Heart Association, we are helping to ensure these community centers are empowered to respond in case of a cardiac emergency.”

“The American Heart Association has set a goal of doubling the survival of cardiac arrest by 2030,” said Jason Pomeroy, executive director of the American Heart Association, Syracuse. “We know that in order to save more lives from the 350,000 cardiac arrests that occur outside of the hospital every year, we must increase the number of people who respond to cardiac arrest by calling 911, delivering high-quality CPR and getting and using an AED as soon as it is available. Collaborations like this are how we can make that impact.”

Quick, simple and easy-to-learn, Hands-Only CPR has been shown to be as effective in the first few minutes as conventional CPR for cardiac arrest at home, at work or in public[3].

For more information on Hands-Only CPR, visit cpr.heart.org.

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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 Media Inquiries:
American Heart Association
Kristy Smorol: Kristy.Smorol@heart.org  
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org