“It’s amazing, truly amazing” according to the hard-working, dedicated staff of the American Red Cross of Northwest Indiana who lauded the dedication of Life Enrichment staff at Residences at Coffee Creek for their efforts in holding their first ever blood drive Friday, July 2, 2021. Angela Williams, Director of Life Enrichment, said they were amazed as well by the support from the community. “I knew it would be challenging as summer is vacation time, but 36 units of blood were collected and 6% of the donors were new volunteers. The Red Cross staff explained that each donation could save up to three lives! Our turnout translated into the possibility of saving 102 lives! We are proud and humbled at the same time!”
Angela noted how much they learned from the Red Cross staff and explained that another amazing fact is that cancer patients need about a quarter of the blood supply, more than any other chronic disease patients. Angela felt fortunate to include Residences staff and even a resident as donors. She noticed that May was American Red Cross Month and contacted the Northwest Indiana chapter to schedule a site drive; the first available date was July 2.
“It was a great, well-organized process and our teams worked together well. We offered a great space and the donors were great—they kept their appointments. We were especially proud of our residents who volunteered to help during the drive; they donated their time and welcoming attitudes, making everyone happy,” said Angela, who, with her team, was busy all day from start to finish. “We’re looking forward to next year—we’ll beat our record,” she promised!
For more information about blood drives and donations contact The American Red Cross of Northwest Indiana 791 E. 83rd Avenue, Merrillville, IN 46410 (219) 756-5360.