Event Description:

In honor of National Black History Month, TUBAA is partnering with Temple Health and the American Red Cross to increase the number of Black blood donors to help combat sickle cell disease. We are looking for volunteers to help staff the Wednesday, February 26, blood drive and encourage others to schedule a blood donation. Volunteers will greet donors, assist with the check-in process and provide snacks and drinks to help donors recover and prevent fainting. Volunteers will ideally work a two-hour shift or more, but we are flexible based on your availability. 

African American blood donors play a critical role in helping sickle cell disease patients receive the most compatible blood match. The antigens on the surface of their red blood cells more closely match the sickle cell disease recipients. As such, the recipients will be less likely to develop antibodies than if blood from other donors is used. Antibodies make it very difficult to find compatible units.