Skip to Main Content
Heart Attack and Stroke Symptoms

Heart Month: Addressing Heart Health in Philadelphia

February, 24 2026

On Wednesday, February 11th, the American Heart Association hosted “Heart Month at City Hall” Day in Philadelphia. Throughout the morning, advocates met with Philadelphia Councilmembers and their staff. During these meetings, advocates thanked Councilmembers for their support in last year’s budget for nutrition incentives that promote healthier eating. Advocates reiterated that heart disease is the leading cause of death in Philadelphia, 1/3 of adults are affected by high blood pressure, and nearly 2/3rd of residents live in neighborhoods with an overabundance of unhealthy foods.  They also shared their own personal stories about why they are involved with the American Heart Association.

Councilmember Jim Harrity, a two-time heart attack survivor himself, hosted a lunch presentation in City Council’s Caucus Room for the American Heart Association. He spoke about the contributing factors to heart disease and how Philadelphia City Council can work with the American Heart Association to address the leading cause of death in the city.

During the lunch, Councilmembers and their staffs heard remarks from a diverse group of advocates that shared their personal stories, data about contributing factors to heart disease and evidence-based policy recommendations to address the causes. Policy recommendations included our on-going support for strengthening tobacco enforcement, increased funding for nutrition programs that incentive the purchase of healthier foods, and expanded access blood pressure machines that support managing high blood pressure. In addition to the policy recommendations, community and clinical partners shared how they collaborate and implement programs with the American Heart Association to improve cardiovascular health directly in the community.

Additional speakers included:

  • Kate FitzPatrick, Chief Nurse Executive Officer Jefferson Health System and American Heart Association Greater Philadelphia Board President
  • Jennifer Litchman-Green, Executive Director American Heart Association Greater Philadelphia
  • Kimberly Lloyd, Philadelphia Delta Sigma Theta Alumnae Chapter, Inc.
  • Mignon Verdell, The Food Trust Community Engagement Manager
  • Phoebe Askie and Jennifer Lydic, Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC)
  • Wallinsky-King, Chief Medical Officer Delaware Valley Community Health (DVCH)

Thank you to all the advocates who made this year’s City Hall Day a success.