Free screenings, education events offered for public housing residents

Dover, Del. – March 20, 2026 – Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) has partnered with the Delaware Cardiovascular Health Learning Collaborative to kick off healthy heart programing for residents at the Liberty Court public housing community in Dover.

Liberty Court was identified as an important site for screening and information outreach because it is located in the Dover Census Tract, which has a poor overall rating in cardiovascular health among its citizens.

“DSHA programs always have focused on improving residents’ financial literacy, but we realize the importance of supporting health and reading literacy as well. It was inspiring to see residents walk away from the event comparing their screening numbers and talking about the health tips they learned,” said DSHA Director Matthew Heckles. “We are excited to work with the Cardiovascular Health Learning Collaborative and its partners to bring these critical resources to our residents in the Dover Census Tract and other areas of Kent and Sussex counties.”

The first event, a cardiovascular screening and health resources luncheon, was held in early February as part of American Heart Month, an annual observance to raise awareness about heart disease. The event focused on elderly and disabled residents in the community.

Eighteen residents were screened for blood pressure, cholesterol, and A1C, a blood sugar measurement.  They received referrals for follow-up treatment, enjoyed a nutritious lunch and got a box of healthy food to take home, provided by the Food Bank of Delaware.

A second event for residents of all ages in the community will be held in March.

In addition to DSHA and the Food Bank, other Delaware Cardiovascular Health Learning Collaborative partners who provided screening and education at the luncheon were the Delaware Department of Health and Human Services’ Division of Public Health, Bayhealth, YMCA, American Heart Association, and Chesapeake Regional RX, a Wilmington-based long-term care pharmacy.

The Delaware Cardiovascular Health Learning Collaborative is a statewide initiative designed to bring together health systems, community organizations, and public health partners to share data, identify disparities, and implement evidence-based interventions. It aims to enhance knowledge and skills by providing its members and partners with evidence-based practices, guidelines, and innovations in cardiovascular care.

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