Sickle Cell Blood Drive

Last week, the Red Cross reached out to us to help promote a blood drive that strives to provide blood donations to those who have Sickle Cell Disease. The Red Cross is partnering with Global Black Pride of Atlanta for this blood donation event. Global Black Pride, through its dynamic and inclusive programming, celebrates and uplifts the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community with a special focus on the experiences and voices of Black LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.

Now you might be wondering “Are LGBTQ+ folks able to donate blood? We’ve been barred for nearly 40 years due to fears about HIV/AIDS” and the answer to that question is YES. In 2023, the FDA removed the restriction of donation based on sexual orientation. This is a HUGE level of progress for our community. Now there are restrictions still, however they apply to anyone and not one particular group of people. If you have any additional concerns then please refer to the Red Cross’ Q&A section which is linked here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/eligibility-requirements/lgbtq-donors.html

If you would like to sign up then please follow these instructions

To sign up:

Go to www.redcrossblood.org

Enter 30361 in the box to the left of the Make An Appointment

Click Make An Appointment

Scroll down the list to Saturday August 31, 2024

Click on The Starling Atlanta 188 14th St NE Atlanta, GA 30361

Click on either the Blood or Power Red button to book

Arrive at the drive about 15 minutes early!