Local businesses launch Paper Hearts promotion for charity

Five Airdrie businesses are taking part in the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s Paper Hearts promotion to raise money for the organization during Stroke Month.

Airdrie Yoga & Fitness, Cam Clark Ford Auto Group, Nutter’s Bulk & Natural Foods, Scotiabank and RBC Royal Bank are taking part in the campaign, which kicked off June 1 and will continue until June 24.

“We are thrilled to partner with these fantastic companies to help raise vital research dollars,” said Scott McRae of the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

“Every seven minutes someone dies of heart disease or stroke and nine in 10 of us in Alberta have at least one risk factor for these diseases. The numbers are devastating.”

During the campaign, paper hearts are available for purchase at participating businesses for $2 each. They are then displayed to showcase the community’s spirit of generosity.

With Nutter’s Bulk & Natural Foods leading the way and Cam Clark Ford Auto Group once again showing its community heart, having five businesses on board in Airdrie was more than the Foundation could have hoped for.

“We feel that what we do fits well with the goals of the Heart and Stroke Foundation and that’s why we were eager to come on board,” said Jeff Schrum, manager, Nutter’s Bulk & Natural Foods. “Nutter’s has evolved into a truly unique food retailer with a commitment to the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle for Albertans.”

Airdrie Yoga & Fitness owner Joan Bell said it is important to get the message out about the prevalence of heart disease and stroke.

“Heart disease and stroke is the No. 1 killer of women… I am not sure people realize that,” said Bell. “I think it is important to raise awareness about the threat of stroke and heart disease.”

It is the first time Bell’s business has been involved with the campaign, although the studio does support a number of local charities.

Bell added response has been good, but encourages everyone to buy a paper heart.

“Everyone knows someone who is either dealing with stroke or heart disease so it is important to give back,” she said.

“I would encourage people… to make a donation for a good cause.”

More than 8,700 volunteers across Alberta and the Territories are helping the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

For more information, visit www.heartandstroke.ca