Encino Chamber Blood Drive Scores Big For Childrens Hospital LA

Encino, CA -- More than 31 units of blood, which will help save up to 68 lives was collected during a February blood drive organized by the Encino Chamber of Commerce on behalf of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles(CHLA).

The Encino Chamber put together a coalition of the West Valley Medical Center, Councilwoman Nithya Raman’s office and the Encino Neighborhood Council for the project in response to the blood supply crisis.

The drive was held at the West Valley Medical Center in Encino.

According to the American Red Cross, the blood supply in the United States has reached one of its lowest levels in recent years. Blood centers across the country are reporting less than a one-day’s supply of blood—a dangerously low level.

Each blood donation truly is a gift of life that a healthy individual can give to others in their community who are sick or injured,” said Sue DuBrin, Encino Chamber board member. “This is an undertaking we are proud to support.”

If the nation’s blood supply does not stabilize, life-saving blood may not be available for some patients when it is needed. The current status of the U.S. blood supply is particularly concerning amid the winter months—a time in which blood donation rates typically decrease due to travel, inclement weather and seasonal illnesses.

“Thanks to the Encino team, we can continue to treat some of the bravest little children in the nation and fulfill our mission of building hope and healthier futures for our patients,” said Daisy Castillo,| CHLA Blood Donor Center recruiter. “Their efforts are truly appreciated by CHLA patients and families here every day as it helps provide our children with another chance at life.”

Children’s Hospital Los Angeles treats over 500,000 children every year. These children require over 2,000 units of blood each month to successfully complete their treatments.