Southeastern Institute Columbia hosts blood drive to help combat recent shortages
COLUMBIA, S.C. – With blood drives across the country being cancelled due to the Coronavirus pandemic, Southeastern Institute Columbia recently partnered with OneBlood to host a blood drive at the school on May 13. OneBlood’s famous Big Red Bus was on hand and collected whole blood donations from donors.
“In an effort to support our community during the pandemic, Southeastern Institute partnered with OneBlood to sponsor this important blood drive,” said Janet Clark, campus president at Southeastern Institute Columbia. “Our Columbia-area hospitals are in need these donations and we were happy to assist!”
As businesses, schools and universities have transitioned to virtual working and learning environments amid the coronavirus pandemic, the ability for blood centers throughout the U.S. to collect donations has been drastically impacted. OneBlood has cancelled more than1900 blood drive in May which would have accounted for more than 30,000 blood donations. The American Red Cross has witnessed nearly 4,500 of its blood drives cancelled in recent months which has resulted in 150,000 fewer blood donations.
“The rate at which blood drives are being canceled is unprecedented and will impact OneBlood’s operations for months to come,” said Susan Forbes, senior vice president of corporate communications and public relations at OneBlood.
To ease fears of spreading the Coronavirus and to enforce social distancing requirements, OneBlood recently modified their collection methods. Only a limited number of people were permitted on the Big Red Bus at any one time and donors were asked wait in their cars until their donation times. OneBlood staff wore additional PPE to safeguard donors.
About Southeastern Institute:
Founded in 1994, Southeastern Institute is committed to providing quality career education and skill development in a personalized environment devoted to student success. Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), Southeastern Institute has locations in Charlotte, N.C.; Columbia, S.C.; and Charleston, S.C. For additional information about Southeastern Institute and its programs of study, visit: www.southeasterninstitute.edu.