By Health and Human Services Director of Human Resources James Montgomery-Hyde

I am very proud  that the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) is joining  with other state agencies and the American Red Cross again for its annual statewide blood drive to help replenish the current dangerously low blood supply. This week, EOHHS kicked off a series of blood drives for its nearly 22,000 employees at 10 different locations.  The sweltering heat of this summer has negatively affected the amount of donated blood hospitals have in reserve; by donating one pint of blood each of us can make a difference, potentially saving up to three lives.    

Did you know that every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood?  More than 38,000 blood donations are needed every day and because the summer is a particularly challenging time for blood collection, the Red Cross is often forced to cut blood shipments to local hospitals. EOHHS is partnering with the Red Cross this month because it’s a crucial time of year in which to raise awareness about the need for blood all year long.

Last year’s August blood drives were an enormous success: collectively, all of the locations brought in 450 donors, delivering 110% of our goal.  Many of us don’t particularly like needles, and while I understand we’re all busy, I encourage all EOHHS staff to find the time to donate blood.  And keep in mind that the blood donation process itself takes less than 15 minutes!

Collectively, state health and human service agencies lead the Commonwealth in public health awareness and education. Similarly, through the annual blood drive we hope to inform all residents about the critical need for blood during summer months and also provide an example that other local employers can follow. While I’m very proud that last year, Commonwealth employees donated more than 450 units of blood that potentially helped save up to 1,350 lives, I look forward to exceeding last year’s total.

The Red Cross Massachusetts Blood Services Region provides lifesaving blood to 73 hospitals and must have 650 people give blood each weekday to meet hospital demand. 

Accident victims, as well as patients with cancer, sickle cell disease, blood disorders and other illnesses receive lifesaving transfusions every day.  There is no substitute for blood and volunteer donors are the only source.  Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to give blood.

As the largest Secretariat in Massachusetts, with 22,000 employees, EOHHS’ collaboration with the Red Cross to host next week’s blood drive is the perfect opportunity to set an example that encourages blood donation at other companies and organizations.  I invite you to be part of this important team effort.

To register to donate at one of the 10 EOHHS blood drives, please email EOHHSgivesblood@state.ma.us or call 617-348-5408.  Below please see the blood donation site locations and times.

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