In a time of great need, the spirit of giving was clearly visible as individuals gathered at BAPS Charities Blood Donation Drives organized throughout USA and Canada. BAPS Charities organized a record-breaking 100 blood drives across North America in partnership with local blood banks. These drives helped collect 4,000 pints of blood to potentially save 12,000 lives (one pint can save up to three lives). The 100 blood donation drives were organized to commemorate the Centennial Celebrations of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, whose compassion towards all inspired the creation of BAPS Charities, the humanitarian arm of BAPS. He lived by the motto ‘In the joy of other lies our own’ – which was the theme of the drives.
BAPS Charities’ nationwide campaign to donate blood was time relief during the worst blood shortage crisis in over a decade due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Ian. Doctors and medical providers are often being forced to make difficult decisions impacting patients requiring blood transfusions. As a result, Red Cross issued a call to action for all potential donors, volunteers, and blood drive organizers to help mitigate the crisis.
Jaymin Patel, a blood donor in Robbinsville, NJ said, “I feel great that I gave someone the gift of life. BAPS Charities is doing a tremendous service by organizing these drives and encouraging people to donate.”
Anna Feltham, Account Manager, American Red Cross Blood Services in Chicago, IL, said, “The blood collected today will go a long way towards replenishing blood supplies and, ultimately, saving lives. The 145 units we collected today at the Chicago drive may save up to 435 lives. Amazing!”
“BAPS Charities has been organizing blood drives for years, but this year was a record-breaking success,” said Nilkanth Patel, President, BAPS Charities. “Our past campaigns were successful, but we are proud to help the well-being of 12,000 people this year!”
Dr. Subhash Patel, National Coordinator of Medical Services said, “BAPS Charities would like to thank all the donors and blood agencies. Without their assistance, we would not have been able to provide the services vital to the well-being of our community.”
Through various activities such as health fairs, bone marrow and blood drives, walkathons, and disaster relief operations, BAPS Charities sincerely serves the world by caring for individuals, families, and communities.
