On Sept. 8, Church of the Messiah in Chesapeake, VA held a community blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross. The drive collected 31 units, 13 over the goal! Volunteers from the church coordinated, offered moral support, and donated during the drive.

In addition to volunteers helping with check-in and post-donation snacks, several Messiah volunteers talked with donors during their draws, holding hands when needed and praying for all.  They heard from several people that they had never been prayed for at a blood drive before.

Afterwards, Messiah received this note from the Red Cross coordinator:

 I cannot thank you and your volunteers enough for all yours and their hard work to make this drive such a success. To collect over 13 units over goal was an incredible feat.

 I loved the picture you sent over of everyone with their T-shirts. I have to say this is one of the "warmest" churches I hold blood drives with. All of you are really special and make donors and our staff so welcome.

I will so look forward to the blood drive in 2024!

Thanks again and have a wonderful fall!

 Carole Donovan
Account Manager, Donor Recruitment
American Red Cross