The Ray County Library is a recipient of the American Heart Association’s grant program to combat high blood pressure in rural areas. Nearly 4 in 10 rural Missourians have been diagnosed with high blood pressure putting many in our community at higher risk for heart disease, stroke, and other health challenges. This opportunity will allow our library – and many others across the country – to improve the health of our community by meeting people where they are to promote and educate residents about hypertension and local health resources.
The funds provided by this grant allowed the Ray County Library to purchase validated blood pressure testing devices to be available for residents to check out and use. In addition, the library will be working with local health organizations, including Senior Life Solutions and the Ray County Hospital and Healthcare Center, to provide additional education and health related programs for the community. According to Library Director Hisle, “The goal of this project will be for the library to assist community members with health information education and locating health resources.” While this opportunity should not replace conversations with your health care team, the goal is for patrons to reduce the barriers that may prevent regular blood pressure monitoring and help them gain a better understanding of their health information and available local health resources. To strengthen the health literacy of our patrons, Senior Life Solutions will present a monthly health information program on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 10:00 AM in the Library’s Community Room. The program on July 16th will focus on Blood Pressure and include a blood pressure testing device demonstration.
The American Heart Association’s mission is to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. The organization serves the needs of all Americans and is dedicated to fighting heart disease and strokes and promoting cardiovascular health.
This funding opportunity and partnership with the American Heart Association will assist the library as it carries out its mission to inform, inspire, and enrich the community.
For additional information, contact: Stacy Hisle, Library Director, 816-776-5104 / library.director.rcl@gmail.com
