The American Red Cross is partnering with The City of South Fulton and the Office of the Chaplain to hold a citywide blood drive on September 27 aimed at raising awareness for the urgent need for blood. The drive is also being held to encourage minority and faith-based communities to give now in honor of Sickle Cell Awareness Month in September.
Sickle cell disease is the most common genetic blood disease in the U.S., and patients often require regular blood transfusions. Transfusions from blood donors of the same ethnic background are most beneficial as they have less chance of causing complications for the recipient.
“It is vital that the blood supply for the Red Cross reflect the diversity of our population to best meet the needs of all,” said City Chaplain Warren Henry. “Whether African-American, Asian- American, Native-American, Latino or one of the many ethnic populations that make up the rich mosaic of not only the City of South Fulton but also our country. Being the month of September is Sickle Cell Awareness month, the City of South Fulton is championing this cause. Your donation matters and we are counting on your support.”
Blood drive organizers are aiming for participation from 125 donors. The goal for the blood drive is to collect more than 75 pints of blood. Each pint collected can save up to three lives.
“Every blood donation is important and maintaining a diverse blood supply is a priority to the Red Cross because of its importance to patients,” said Ronnika A. McFall, external communications manager of the Red Cross Southern Blood Services Region. “That’s why we thank the City of South Fulton and City Chaplain for hosting this blood drive. Minority organizations and diverse blood donors may have the unique ability to help patients with different illnesses or inherited diseases – for example, those with sickle cell anemia – by donating and/or hosting a blood drive.”
The Office of the Chaplain’s Citywide Blood Drive will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Welcome All Park, located on 4255 Will Lee Road in South Fulton.
Those interested in participating can make an appointment to donate by downloading the free American Red Cross Blood Donor App, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and using sponsor code: SOUTHFULTON or by contacting Pastor Warren Henry at (470)-809-7308. Additional information is available at visit www.redcrossblood.org/hostadrive.
Photo Credit: American Red Cross