By MADDY VITALE
The United Methodist Church in Sea Isle City and the Sea Isle Police Department are working together for a good cause – a blood drive.
The joint blood drive will be held from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Oct. 8 in the United Methodist Church Hall at 4102 Central Avenue and JFK Boulevard.
“I think it is a great cause. We are happy to lend a hand toward helping the blood banks,” Police Chief Tom McQuillen said. “It is worth our time and investment to support it.”
He noted, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic, that it is essential people continue to give blood. One donation could help save three lives, according to the Red Cross.
“I think there are less people donating now and it is more important now for people who can give blood to do so,” McQuillen explained. “They can do it safely and fill a void right now.”
This is the second blood drive the police department has participated in with the church.
Back in January the church, with Pastor Melissa Doyle-Waid, and the police department partnered for the blood drive.
Norma Poole, a member of United Methodist, is the coordinator for the blood drive for the church and has been since about 2012.
Each year, the church hosts three blood drives, one in January, June and October. St. Joseph Catholic Church, also in Sea Isle, holds two blood drives each year as well – in April and August.
This way, it gives several opportunities for people to give blood in the community, Poole said. Ron Custer is the coordinator for the St. Joseph Church blood drive.
Poole explained why it is so important to give blood.
“I’ve always felt blood donation is important,” she said. “You never know when you will need blood. There are accidents and surgeries and if you have a shortage you might have to travel further for a surgery.”
And during the pandemic the Red Cross is doing everything possible to ensure that the people donating their blood are safe, Poole said.
“The Red Cross is doing everything in their power to make it safe. You aren’t allowed into the building without getting your temperature taken,” Poole emphasized. “You aren’t allowed to go in and visit. There are many rules in place to keep people safe.”
Poole said she is appreciative of the police officers.
“We partnered with them in 2020. They are all really great police officers. They helped us out with both blood drives,” she said.
She hopes that there will be a good turnout for the blood drive next week.
“It is very important to go out and donate blood. If you are feeling good, do it. They need all types,” Poole said. “If you have any questions about your ability to donate, you can call the Red Cross and they will answer any questions you have.”
People may schedule an appointment by calling Norma Poole at 609-263-8025 or going to www.RedCrossBlood.org.
