The Waterloo Regional Police Service is partnering once again with Canadian Blood Services and local emergency service workers for this year’s Sirens for Life campaign.
The campaign encourages emergency service workers and residents to come together and donate blood in support of their local emergency service team.
Emergency service workers often see the urgent need for blood first-hand.
Just one person who is seriously injured in a vehicle collision could need as many as 50 blood donors to help save their life, the police service said in a release.
"Many Canadians already view the service of first responders as heroic," says Marisa Gatfield, Canadian Blood Services' community development manager in Waterloo.
"Our hope, on behalf of patients in Canada, is that the blood and plasma donations of first responders through the Sirens for Life program are seen as an extension of their heroism and inspire others to become donors themselves."
The goal for this year’s campaign in Waterloo Region is to fill every appointment this summer and collect 3,568 units of blood (one unit equals one donation). Organizers also hope to recruit 150 new donors.
“We are proud to support and partner with Canadian Blood Services again this year to encourage and challenge community members to donate blood,” said police chief Mark Crowell.
“Ensuring a stable supply of blood donations is available in clinics throughout the Region is essential. By committing to donate, you are making a lifelong difference for someone in need, as well as their families and loved ones.”
The Sirens for Life Campaign kickoff will take place Friday, June 28 at 10 a.m. at Police Headquarters, 200 Maple Grove Rd. in Cambridge.
The blood drive will run from July 1 to Sept. 2 at local Canadian Blood Services locations.
Canadian Blood Services manages the national supply of blood, blood products, and stem cells, and related services for all the provinces and territories excluding Quebec.
