In a bid to give back to the community and bolster health services during the holiday season, the Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) and the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) of Hawai'i took part in a lighthearted competition to collect blood for the Blood Bank of Hawai'i, with both departments showing equal, commendable efforts. Each one pulled in 39 pints through their respective drives.
The DAGS hosted their blood drive last Friday at the Kalanimoku Building, closely following the DCCA's own event held the previous Wednesday. The unified purpose was to support the Blood Bank during a time of year when, according to the bank, donations can drop by up to 20%. It's a period when giving takes on special resonance, as people come together, extend a helping hand to those in need, and where the act of donating blood becomes an even more poignant reflection of the season's spirit of generosity and togetherness.
"We are so appreciative of those who give back to our community in a very impactful and immediate way," Kim-Anh Nguyen, CEO and President of Blood Bank of Hawaii, expressed her gratitude. "How often is it that you can save someone’s life? Your blood donation this holiday season will help sustain Hawai’i’s supply, save lives and inspire others," she told the State of Hawai'i website.
Saving lives doesn't take a break for the holidays—it’s not seasonal or dependent on timing. That’s why Keith Regan, DAGS Director, not only participated in the drive but also emphasized the need for blood donations during this time. "During the holiday season there is a great need for blood to be donated to help save lives. This is one way of giving back," Regan said. DCCA Director Nadine Ando echoed this sentiment, stating, "Our employees care deeply about the community – that’s one of the reasons they dedicate their careers to government service – and giving blood is another way we can help care for our communities. You never know when you or a loved one may need a blood transfusion," as mentioned on the state's official website.
