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Community Service Initiative

Lead With H.E.A.R.T.

My commitment to a healthier, more equitable New York — and a future where no dream is limited by a zip code.

Mary Bellakbira in green top with Miss Heart of New York title banner

The Framework

What H.E.A.R.T. Stands For

Every letter is a pillar. Every pillar is a promise.

Person stretching and exercising representing health, wellness, and preventive care
H

H stands for

Health

Expanding access to early health education, preventive care, and wellness resources so every person can build a strong foundation for their future.

Children learning STEM and building hydroponics through Food for Thought Foundation education program
E

E stands for

Education

Ensuring children and communities have access to quality health education, nutrition knowledge, and the information needed to make empowered decisions.

Mary holding the Food for Thought Foundation sign representing access to health and opportunity
A

A stands for

Access

Advocating for affordable, transparent healthcare and treatment so that cost, location, and systemic barriers never stand between a person and the care they need.

Two women posing in front of Harvard Medical School and Dana-Farber research posters representing health research and advocacy
R

R stands for

Research

Advancing solutions in women's health, medical access, and health equity through data-informed advocacy and partnerships with institutions driving change.

Children and community members coming together in a spirit of togetherness and shared purpose
T

T stands for

Togetherness

Building strong communities through school engagement, outreach, and partnerships — because lasting health change happens when we move together.

The Why

Why Do I Advocate for a Healthier New York?

1

Because over half of New York adults face healthcare affordability burdens, skipping care, delaying prescriptions, or struggling to pay medical bills.

2

Because children are growing up without consistent access to nutritious food, health education, and care, the very foundation of their future.

3

Because the top causes of death in New York are largely preventable through lifestyle changes.

4

Because in one of the wealthiest states in the world, your health is still determined by your zip code.

5

Because women's health is still under-researched, underfunded, and misunderstood.

6

Because life-saving medicine exists, but not everyone can access or afford it.

Because no one's dreams should be limited by their zip code or their health status.