Red Cross Blood Drive held at Government Center in Albany

ALBANY, Ga. – It’s been a busy Friday morning at the Albany Government Center, as dozens of Dougherty county employees have filed in to donate a pint of blood.

It’s one of the things that’s needed. You never know when it’s going to be you or your family.

That’s mindset dozens of Dougherty county employees held Friday as the Red Cross set up in the Government Center downtown for a county blood drive.

“It is so important, it’s very important. We to know that the blood supply will remain constant. There’s always a constant need. So, you know anyone that ever has the availability, just come on out, roll up the sleeve and donate with us,” said Fabwin Rice, Collection Specialist, Red Cross.

We spoke with a couple of Dougherty county employees both on and off-camera about why they decided to get stuck in Friday.

“I’m donating blood; one because I’m O-Positive, and that’s one of the bloods that they really need a lot of. So, I’m just giving back,” said Vernessa Jenkins, Dougherty county employee.

But, in the aftermath of Hurricane Idalia, the need for blood donations feels just a little more heightened than usual.

“Just like recently, we had the tornadoes and the hurricane in Valdosta, and in the surrounding areas. Then we have people displaced, they don’t have anywhere to go, they may need blood, they may have been injured. So, yes, it’s very important,” said Jenkins.

“Well it’s always important, and of course with our recent events, even more so. But, it’s always important for everyone to come out and donate, because you want to keep that supply high,” said Rice.

As dozens of Dougherty county employees stepped up to donate a pint, they know they’re making a difference to those who need a little more blood.

According to the registration, more than 40 Dougherty county employees were cleared to donate blood, with nearly another 10 walk-ins being approved as well.

Brian Roche reporting.

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