Chapter Spotlight: Dade County High School

Helping During a Shortage

Every year our HOSA chapter coordinates 3 blood drives per year with blood assurance. However, this year was a little different. With the COVID-19 precautions I was not sure if we would be approved to collaborate with them . Blood assurance sent emails to coordinators, such as myself stressing the need for blood donation during the pandemic because of the shortage of donors. One email read ,

"Blood Assurance has less than one day’s supply of several types and a general need for all types (except AB+). More than 25,000 units of blood were lost nationwide in February alone due to weather. That, combined with the decline of donations since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to severe shortages across the nation and right here in our area. We need a five-day supply of blood to be prepared for traumas, natural disasters, and more."

When I reached out to the amazing administration at DCHS, I was not surprised to get the approval of helping our community during a time of crisis. Our HOSA members have done an amazing job with our 2 drives so far this year and we have another drive schedule at the end of April. In collaborating with Blood Assurance DCHS was recognized for our efforts. We received an email from blood assurance and one of statements read,

"We were very pleased with the drive overall, and the willingness of the donors to share this life saving gift. The efforts of Dade County High School have always been greatly appreciated and their support of the community blood program will go a long way toward replenishing blood supplies and ultimately saving lives."

DCHS HOSA is saving lives one donation at a time!