The summer months can be the most challenging time of the year for blood centers. With vacation trips and holiday plans approaching, blood shortages are widespread. On Sunday, June 30, 2019, the International WeLoveU Foundation partnered with LifeStream Blood Bank in San Bernardino, California. It became the largest blood drive in the Inland Empire.
Volunteers and supporters arrived at the National Orange Show Events Center at 9 a.m., eager to donate their time and blood to save lives in their community. Over 1,200 volunteers from different locations attended. They came from Fresno, the Inland Empire, Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego. In total, more than 750 pints of blood were collected, estimated to save about 2,250 lives.
Dr. Rick Axelrod, the CEO and President of LifeStream Blood Bank said, “We’ve reviewed records and contacted many who were affiliated with our organization in the past. At no point did we hear of so many blood donors expected at one site on one day.”
WeLoveU Receives Special Recognition by the California State Senate
Nearing the end of the event, California State Senator Leyva presented the WeLoveU Foundation with a Certificate of Recognition.
“On behalf of the California State Senate, it is my privilege to recognize you for your commitment to our community and especially to people in need. Your leadership and dedication to assuring a safe and sufficient blood supply for people in need are evidenced by your hosting the largest blood drive in the Inland Empire. Thank you for what you are doing to promote unity in our community.”
“I’m very impressed!” said Eloise Gómez Reyes, California State Assembly Member. “I’ve heard of the cleanups that have been done in the community by the WeLoveU Foundation, and now to have the WeLoveU Foundation organize the largest blood drive in the Inland Empire, I’m even more impressed! The volunteers of the WeLoveU Foundation: you are everything! The rest of us could talk about it, but you volunteers are the ones doing everything! You’re giving blood, and you’re making sure those who give blood are comfortable! Thank you so much.”
Despite summer plans, the need for blood donation is critical. The WeLoveU Foundation is determined to continue holding blood drives in the Inland Empire to save lives.