Blood Drive helps patients in need

The City of Shafter teamed up with Shafter High School and Houchin Blood Bank to hold a Blood Drive at Mannel Park on Sept. 10.

The drive was geared toward students, but was open to adults as well. The turnout was great and lives were helped with the generosity of the Shafter community. During this time of the covid-19 crisis, blood is needed to replenish supplies for patients in need, as well as needing plasma for covid-19 patients to help in their healing process.

Students who donated blood at the drive received a limited edition T-Shirt and were also entered in a drawing for a $250 gift card.

One pint of blood can save up to three lives. Enrique Martinez, who said that he donates regularly, said that he was pleasantly surprised to see the students in attendance.

"Years ago, you didn't see the kids giving like they are now," Martinez said. "They are so involved and care about making a difference in people's lives."

Houchin is still in need of more donations, keeping the supply up to meet demand. They are also looking for those who have recovered from the coronavirus. Those patients who have recovered can donate their plasma, which has antibodies that can help current covid-19 patients fight the virus. Those interested can contact Houchin Blood Bank at their Bolthouse location at 661-323-4222 or at the Truxtun Donor Center at the same phone number.