National Blood Drive Continues in Boston, Massachusetts

The International WeLoveU Foundation aspires to give hope to the global village. That is why, despite the worldwide health crisis, the efforts of WeLoveU to care for their communities have not stopped. On February 21, 2021, WeLoveU collaborated with Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for a second time to host a much-needed blood drive .  

This blood drive was part of the two-month National Blood Drive campaign, following the cancellation of more than 50,000 donations in 2020. Volunteers arrived early in the morning to set up and organize the area to welcome donors and supporters. Soon after, coworkers, friends, and family members invited by volunteers arrived, regardless of the cold weather.  

Safety First: Donating Blood and Saving Lives

The drive followed CDC guidelines such as wearing face coverings, maintaining physical distancing, and scheduling donations ahead of time, allowing for a smooth process.

Volunteers and hospital staff worked together to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort, providing snacks and water. Over 60 volunteers from Massachusetts and New Hampshire participated, collecting 141 pints of blood as a result.   

At the end of the drive, the volunteers and supporters shared their experiences. 

“The WeLoveU [blood] drive happened last year [2019]. It was amazing! We knew we could count on you guys. We knew that you would answer the call. We were overwhelmed and so thankful for your support. Just bringing all different races and nationalities in, to come to donate blood, it says a lot about the wonderful people in your organization,” said Molly McDermott, recruitment program manager for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute 

With hospitals and other healthcare centers experiencing deficiencies in blood donations, WeLoveU encourages others to donate blood. The small act of donating helps to treat illnesses, accident patients, or those undergoing surgery. Through the efforts of WeLoveU and partners, there is a hope to combat the blood shortage nationwide.