‘Keep on Track (KOT)’ is a volunteer run blood pressure monitoring program designed to provide a reliable and convenient place for community members to check and monitor their blood pressure and support for participants in getting high blood pressure under control. These programs are located in neighborhoods where the rates of early death from heart attack and stroke are disproportionately high.

In East and Central Harlem, high blood pressure is reported by up to 35% of the adult population, one of the highest rates in the city, compared to the citywide average of 27% . Death rates from high blood pressure in low-income neighborhoods like East and Central Harlem are three times higher than in the highest income neighborhoods of the City . These facts highlight the important role of the KOT program, especially in institutions such as Yorkville Common Pantry.

Yorkville Common Pantry (YCP) began operating their KOT program in December 2007. Since then, they have served over 225 participants, representing one of the larger KOT community programs in the city. Currently, YCP operates their program two Thursdays a month during food distribution hours, with 5 volunteers who independently coordinate and operate all of the program’s activities. The consistency and frequency with which YCP operates their KOT program is a model for how the program should be run and is a testament to their dedication to helping their local community.

Along with their blood pressure numbers, participants at YCP receive a detailed explanation of their readings and counseling regarding the type of follow-up care needed. In addition to this, participants are also supplied with health education materials and counseling from the highly trained volunteers. These materials include key health messages regarding sodium intake, medication adherence, and the importance of physical activity.

Since their program’s inception, YCP has consistently demonstrated their understanding of the key KOT program components and has time and again proven to be an exemplary site for the program. In large part due to YCP’s efforts and successes, the KOT program is investigating expanding the program to other food pantries around the city.

Through their efforts, YCP and their dedicated volunteers have provided an invaluable service to their local community and have no doubt helped numerous individuals to gain control of their blood pressures’ and to live longer and healthier lives.