In alignment with the Healthy People 2030 goal of reducing stroke-related deaths, the Santa Clara ICU and Department 135 Telemetry partnered to host a transformative community outreach event focused on stroke education for the homeless population. Recognizing that timely education can save lives, the teams collaborated to bring critical knowledge about stroke prevention, early warning signs, and the importance of seeking immediate care. 

Santa Clara nurses delivered interactive sessions on recognizing BE FAST (Balance, Eye drooping, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911) and managing risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes. These sessions empowered attendees with practical tools to protect themselves and their loved ones, bridging gaps in health literacy among vulnerable populations. 

Beyond education, the outreach embodied compassion and holistic care. Voice of Nursing (VON) members organized a donation drive to collect clothes, shoes, bedding, and other essentials to meet immediate needs. The team also prepared and served a hot lunch, creating a welcoming environment that fostered trust and engagement. This act of kindness reinforced Kaiser Permanente’s commitment to treating the whole person, not just the illness. 

ICU and Department 135 nurses demonstrated interdisciplinary collaboration at its best. Their efforts extended beyond clinical walls, addressing social determinants of health that often exacerbate stroke risks. By combining education with tangible support, the initiative exemplified how healthcare teams can make a meaningful impact on community well-being. 

The event concluded with heartfelt gratitude from participants and a renewed sense of purpose among staff. Through proactive outreach and resource sharing, ICU and Department 135 advanced the mission of Healthy People 2030, proving that reducing stroke mortality begins with education and equity.