HCC responds to crucial need after Hurricane Harvey

Sep 9, 2017

“I will do anything I can.”  Those were Brigid Wilson’s words when on Friday, September 1, she received a call from a representative of the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center inquiring if it was possible for HCC to lend a hand and host a blood drive.  Wilson, who is a dedicated faculty member of Houston Community College (HCC) VAST Academy, did not hesitate to set things in motion at HCC Central College.

 “This time the blood center was low in supply because of the hurricane. During that week nobody gave blood. They needed to increase their supply to meet their demand,” said Wilson.

The building was filled with activity as faculty, staff and several soon-to-be HCC students were participating in the student registration process. Several members of the HCC family like Dr. Amber Holloway, HCC Vice Chancellor of Student Engagement and Success, rolled up their sleeves.

“I was planning to make visits to various campuses today and I decided to put this in my schedule. It was something I could do. I did not have much damage as a result of the hurricane. I feel lucky and grateful and I want to be able to give back on some way,” indicated Dr. Holloway.

Another HCC staff member willing to do his part was Raymond Swanson, ID specialist at HCC Central College. Even though he lost a vehicle and several personal items during the storm, he felt compelled to support the effort.

“I was on my way going on a break and I saw they were taking blood. I decided to stop by. It is an easy way to help, it does not cost anything and I am happy to help someone else”.

According to Kebra Fuller, Supervisor of the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center who coordinated the blood drive, while not everyone has the chance to save someone from a sinking car, everybody has the opportunity to do something.

“We do not know what the aftermath of Harvey is going to give us so we need to have that supply on hand. Having a supply of blood is an important piece of the puzzle in saving lives.”

If you are interested in blood donations opportunities after Hurricane Harvey, please visit: http://www.giveblood.org/miscellaneous/hurricane-harvey-donations/