Record number of donors help make Vitalant Blood Drive a big success
SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Vitalant's MLK Day of Service Blood Drive was a huge success.
The number of donations received today was double the number of donations the blood center collects on a typical day.
The second annual event was held at all four of Vitalant's offices in the Tri-County region, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, Santa Barbara and Ventura.
The drive was created to help boost traditionally low blood supplies that occur each January.
On Monday, beginning at 10 a.m., a steady stream of donors visited each location which continued throughout the day.
"It's tremendous and we really appreciate everyone's support and donating today," said Vitalant's Laura Segura. "We've had a lot of new donors come in this morning, which really is a good thing."
Segura noted the Santa Maria office had at least 15 first-time donors, which is a steep increase from a normal day.
Overall, Vitalant received approximately 200 donations during the blood drive, a record-breaking amount.
The Santa Maria and Santa Barbara offices each had about 60 donations, while the San Luis Obispo and Ventura offices were both over 40.
The numbers are significantly higher than on a typical day and mark a big increase from the numbers collected last year.
"It is very heart-warming and rewarding to see people come in on the Day of Service and a lot of people take that seriously, which is really good to see," said Segura.
In Santa Maria, the waiting room was full throughout the day as some donors had to wait up to an hour to have their blood drawn.
"When I came in, I was like, wow, all these people here are willing to donate and I think it's great," said donor Julia Schneider. "It's just one of those small things that you can kind of take some time out of your day to do. It doesn't take that much, but it makes a big difference for other people."
Gregory Gentile said he heard about the blood drive while watching the morning news.
He said he usually donates during the Pioneer Valley High School blood drive, where he works but decided to take part in this event once he heard about the urgent need.
"It's a wonderful opportunity for people to give back to the community, and I was surprised to see so many people here today," said Gentile. "It makes me feel good that I'm able to help the community"
The Santa Maria office stayed open one extra hour to meet the demand. They also called for extra help from the San Luis Obispo office.
Segura emphasized that anyone who is interested in donating blood can still do so anytime.
"We are very appreciative of everybody that came out today to support and please make your appointment, we have appointments through the rest of the week. We'd love for you to come in," said Segura.
For more information on donating blood, visit the Vitalant website.
