Love Your Heart This Valentine’s Season: JCHC hosts annual Heart Health & Home Cooking Demo

FAIRFIELD — This February, Jefferson County Health Center (JCHC) invites community members to show their hearts some love by attending its annual Heart, Health & Home Cooking event on Thursday, Feb. 26, from 5—7 p.m., in Conference Room C at JCHC. Held during American Heart Month and near Valentine’s Day, this free educational event focuses on stroke awareness, heart health, and practical lifestyle choices that support long-term wellness.

The evening will offer an educational presentation on stroke prevention and recognition, helping participants understand what a stroke is, why acting quickly matters, and how to recognize warning signs using the F.A.S.T. method. Attendees will also learn about common stroke risk factors and how everyday habits play a role in heart health. Participants will be introduced to key areas for improving heart health, including healthy eating, physical activity, sleep, and managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.

The event will also feature interactive activities designed to make healthy choices more approachable, including a guided “grocery store tour” experience that highlights how to read nutrition labels, choose heart-healthy foods, and make simple swaps at the store. The evening will conclude with food sampling and a live cooking demonstration, showcasing flavorful, heart-healthy recipes that can be easily prepared at home.

“Valentine’s Day is about caring for the people you love, and heart health is one of the most meaningful ways to do that,” said a Colette Banda, Registered Dietitian at JCHC. “This event is about progress — not perfection — and empowering people with simple, sustainable steps that support a healthier heart.”

Attendees will have opportunities to ask questions, enjoy complimentary food samples, and receive on-site blood pressure checks as part of their heart health experience.

A special thank you to the JCHC Auxiliary for sponsoring this event and helping make it possible.

Space is limited. Advance registration is encouraged. To reserve a spot, visit https://www.jeffersoncountyhealthcenter.org/heart-health-event or call 641-469-4203.