On Sunday, February 28, 2021, the International WeLoveU Foundation partnered with Inova Blood Donor Services to host a blood drive in Sterling, Virginia.  

The Washington, D.C. Chapter of WeLoveU took part in the National Blood Drive campaign by donating 75 pints of blood. As each pint of blood saves three lives, the donors’ efforts will save 225 lives! 

Virginia Donates Love by Donating Blood  

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is currently a global blood shortage. Blood donations are lifelines to patients who need procedures using blood, including cancer patients who need blood transfusions, car accident victims, and patients in emergencies; however, all across the U.S., over 50,000 blood drives were canceled.  

Despite the rain and chilling temperatures, more than 70 WeLoveU volunteers came bustling in for their appointments one by one. Through the blood drive, the members exemplified the state slogan, “Virginia is for lovers.” By donating blood, they donated love.

Following the CDC guidelines for blood and plasma facilities, the volunteers pre-registered to avoid crowding. Once they arrived on site, volunteers remained in their vehicles until 15 minutes of their allotted time. Additional precautions such as wearing masks, physical distancing, and temperature checks ensured the donors’ safety.  

After the event, first-time donors shared their experiences.   

“This was my first time donating both blood and platelets. I had no idea that my small donation could be used to treat people who suffered a serious injury from a car accident,” said a donor. “I think blood drives are important now more than ever as the pandemic has made these donations in high demand.”  

The WeLoveU Foundation hopes to bring awareness to the Sustainable Development Goals through blood drives and other community services. With the ongoing blood drive campaign, the small efforts of donors will save many lives.