Eighth CoServ Blood Drive collects enough donations to help 168 people

The CoServ Blood Drive collected enough blood from Employees and the public to help up to 168 people. CoServ’s eighth blood drive on Sept. 20 was done in partnership with the Lake Cities Chamber of Commerce, who provided volunteers and donors.

The donation comes as the American Red Cross announces a national blood shortage.

“Blood donation is such a simple yet powerful way to make a positive impact on so many lives,” said Ben Crawford, Director of Development, Design and Planning, who has donated blood multiple times. “These blood drives are a great example of CoServ’s commitment to the communities we serve and beyond.”

In early September, the American Red Cross announced its reserves had dropped by more than 25 percent over the previous month, making events like these timely and important. Fortunately, CoServ Employees and members of the communities are always ready to answer the call.

"I have been participating in Red Cross blood drives since college," said Denise Smithers, CoServ Senior Vice President of Customer Care and Engagement. "I always try to donate whenever I have the opportunity, so with CoServ hosting blood drives twice a year for Employees and the community, it’s never been easier to make a difference."

The Fall blood drive collected 56 units. Since a single donation can help as many as three people, that means up to 168 people will benefit from this one drive. On the year, CoServ has collected 117 pints, extending that reach to as many as 351 individuals.

In its history, the CoServ Blood Drive has collected some 469 pints, making a difference for more than 1,400 people for people in need of blood donations or transfusions.

“Part of why CoServ loves to engage the community is the opportunity to help make a difference in people’s lives,” said Walker Sims, CoServ Community Events Specialist.