By Lineth Fernandez
2. Shane Strum, Broward Health president & CEO, accepting the proclamation
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL. – Broward Health was recognized by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners and the City of Lauderhill for its Stay Healthy Together program and its commitment to expanding access to preventive and primary care throughout Broward County.
During a recent Broward County commission meeting, Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis read a proclamation from the Board of Commissioners declaring May 2026 as Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month in Broward County. The proclamation highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the mental and physical health challenges mothers face during pregnancy and postpartum care, while acknowledging the collaborative efforts of healthcare providers and community organizations working to eliminate maternal health disparities.
Broward County Board of Commissioners and recipients of Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month proclamation
Representing Broward Health at the ceremony were Melida Akiti, corporate transformation executive and Kathy Salerno, director of community relations. Maternal healthcare leaders from organizations across Broward County, including Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition of Broward County, Healthy Start Coalition of Broward County, Florida Department of Health in Broward County, Memorial Healthcare System, Journey Institute and Children’s Services Council of Broward County, were also represented.
Denise Grant, Mayor, City of Lauderhill, and Melida Akiti, corporate transformation executive, Broward Health (center) with city commissioners and staff
“It is an honor for Broward Health to be recognized as a champion of maternal mental health,” said Strum. “Maternal mental health services are vital to moms, expectant mothers, babies and families. At Broward Health, we will continue to raise awareness and strengthen access to support so we can help more families get the care they need.”
In addition, the City of Lauderhill proclaimed April 27, 2026, as Broward Health Appreciation Day in recognition of Broward Health’s Stay Healthy Together partnership and community outreach efforts.
1. Melida Akiti, corporate transformation executive
The Stay Healthy Together initiative is an extension of the Better Together collaboration between Broward Health and Memorial Healthcare System, which focused on expanding access to primary care and maternal health services for residents regardless of their ability to pay. Through mobile healthcare services, screenings, health education and food distributions, the initiative brings care directly into Broward County neighborhoods to help improve health outcomes and reduce barriers to care.
“Strong collaboration is essential to building healthier communities,” said Akiti. “Working with cities like Lauderhill together with our community partners allows us to connect residents with vital health services and support in meaningful ways.”
In March 2026, Broward HealthPoint partnered with the City of Lauderhill to host a Stay Healthy Together community wellness event, welcoming more than 600 residents for a day of health services, education and community support.
During the event, Broward HealthPoint’s adult and pediatric mobile health units provided medical visits, screenings and preventative care services for children and families. The adult mobile unit delivered 25 health services, including primary care visits and blood pressure and glucose screenings. In addition, volunteers distributed 700 nutritious food bags and served 700 hot lunches to residents, volunteers and staff.
“We are incredibly grateful for both of these honors and are proud to continue working together to expand access to care and support a healthier community,” added Strum.
