Together We Will Make a Difference.

“A Lakewood Community call for support”

“How can I donate blood to support the need in Israel?” Many people have asked that question since October 7, 2023. For now, Israel has enough blood to meet existing needs, but that could change instantly. In the meantime, the United States of America has been in the throes of a national blood shortage since the COVID -19 pandemic. Is there a way to meet current local needs in the USA and possible future needs in Israel?

Yes. Magen David Adom (MDA) – Israel’s emergency services system – and Blood Centers of America (BCA) –the largest blood supply network in the United States – have come up with a way to address the challenge. MDA and BCA have a signed agreement: If Israel needs blood and is unable to collect its own residents’ blood due to the ongoing war, a natural disaster, or other unforeseen emergency, BCA will ship blood from the USA to Israel.

In the past four months, the partnership between MDA and BCA has resulted in 18 blood drives in nine different states where more than 835 pints of blood have been collected. In Lakewood and Long Branch alone, more than 150 pints were collected in August and September.

Bikur Cholim of Lakewood sponsors community blood drives monthly in Lakewood at the RWJBarnabas Health Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus and quarterly drives at the Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch. Participating blood donors accomplish two mitzvot: 1) supporting the local blood supply and 2) strengthening BCA’s insurance policy for Israel.

At this time, your blood donation will be especially meaningful for local hospital patients as the US blood supply experiences a traditional drop from late November through January. The next Blood Drive will be on November 26th from 11 AM to 5 PM at Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Lakewood. If you are between the ages of 16 and 75 and generally healthy, you will probably be able to donate. Sixteen-year-olds will need their parents to sign a consent form. Donors who are 70 and older may require a doctor’s consent. Questions about your medical eligibility should be referred to the RWJBH Blood Services at 732-235-8100 ext. 221. A photo ID is required and we encourage you to eat and drink prior to donating! Appointments are always appreciated, and walk-ins are welcome.