DRC Partners with Red Cross for Blood Drive Effort

Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction

NEWS RELEASE

Ohio’s Prison System Partners with American Red Cross for Blood Drive Effort

(Columbus) – This summer the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (DRC) partnered with the American Red Cross for the Ohio Corrections Blood Drive Challenge, a state-wide blood donor drive held at DRC prisons and Adult Parole Authority offices. The blood drive ran from July 1, 2009 – September 30, 2009.

The summer blood drive was strategically scheduled because summer is the most challenging season for the Red Cross to collect blood donations. Dubbed as “trauma season”, summer brings an increase in the demand for blood to treat trauma victims, but a decrease in the availability of many donors.

“DRC staff have long been committed to giving back to our communities and we were excited to be involved with this important partnership,” stated DRC Director Terry J. Collins. “I am proud of what we have accomplished through our efforts with the American Red Cross, and we are excited to maintain and expand this relationship for many years to come. The number of blood donations that we made during this challenge is certainly reflective of the giving spirit of DRC.”

As a result of the Ohio Corrections Blood Drive a total of 1,148 blood donations were made, including 187 first time donors. Awards were presented to the region (North vs. South) that brought in the most blood as well as the institution or work location with the highest percentage of employee participation. The North Region was recognized by the American Red Cross for achieving the highest number of blood donations with a total of 603, while the Southeastern Correctional Institution in Lancaster, Ohio was recognized for having the highest percentage of staff participation (22.13%).

“The statewide partnership with correctional institutions came at a critical point in the year, when blood donations decline and trauma accidents increase. Ohio’s correctional employees have shown they truly care about the community. They stepped up right when needed to ensure blood would be available to patients in need. We are thrilled with this life-saving partnership,” said Chris Copper, Senior Director of Donor Services for American Red Cross Central Ohio Blood Services Region.

For more information, please contact the DRC Public Information Office at (614) 752-1150 or Rodney Wilson at the American Red Cross at (614) 253-2740, ext. 2347.