120+ donors participate in largest Jewish institution–sponsored blood drive in the U.S.
PIKESVILLE, MD. — Chizuk Amuno Congregation and School and Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) partnered for the first time to host the largest Jewish institution-sponsored blood drive in the United States, held Thursday, January 15, during National Blood Donor Month. The blood drive registered 121 donors, with donations supporting patients at local and regional hospitals across Delmarva.
The blood drive was coordinated in partnership with American Friends of Magen David Adom (AFMDA), the primary fundraising and advocacy organization in the United States supporting Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical service.
“This new partnership was built with great care and thoughtfulness,” said Alison Gardy, Director of External & Partner Relations for AFMDA, who oversees AFMDA-connected blood drives nationally. “At the blood drive kick-off today, blood donors shared that they were impressed by the care and professionalism of the phlebotomists, the ease of the experience, the pleasantness, and the efficiency. It’s been a delight to partner with Blood Bank of Delmarva and Chizuk Amuno. Strong partnerships make amazing things happen.”
Ira Gewanter, Director of Major Gifts for AFMDA, was also on site to support the blood drive, which was coordinated by Chizuk Amuno community member Warren Gould.
“We are grateful to be surrounded by so many families who care deeply about making a positive impact in Baltimore and Israel, both in and beyond the Jewish community,” Gewanter said. “This blood drive speaks to our core values because all the blood donated will save lives for anyone in need here in Maryland, mirroring Magen David Adom’s parallel mission of saving lives without any prejudice based on race, religion, gender or political affiliation.”
Blood Bank of Delmarva leaders and staff were present throughout the day to support operations and donors, receiving positive feedback for the efficiency and professionalism of the donor experience.
“I am thrilled to be partnering with Chizuk Amuno and AFMDA,” said Dr. Bruce Sachais, BBD Medical Director and Chief Medical Officer of New York Blood Center Enterprises. “As I look around, I see so many giving of their time to save lives.”
Longtime donors and first-time participants alike turned out for the drive, including families with deep ties to the event’s legacy. The drive is traditionally known as the Howard W. Brill Memorial Blood Drive”, honoring the late Howard W. Brill and his lifelong commitment to blood donation.
“I grew up watching him donate and my dad’s father got him into donating as well,” said donor Lee Brill, whose father inspired generations of donors. “There are a lot of longtime donors, including my Dad’s good friend, Bob Wolf [who was sitting across from him]. Warren [Gould] does a great job.”
Melissa Brill, who is Director of Marketing and Programming at Chizuk Amuno Congregation & Schools, shared about her experience as a blood recipient. “When I gave birth to my daughter, I received two pints of blood,” Melissa said. “I hate needles, and I would have never wanted to donate. After I got transfusions and seeing the importance of it, I said, ‘I think I can do this.’ I’ve been donating whenever I can since.”
This blood drive comes during a critical time for blood collections in the U.S. January, which was proclaimed National Blood Donor Month by President Richard Nixon in 1970, is historically one of the most challenging months for the blood supply. Holiday travel, school breaks, winter weather, and seasonal illness often prevent donors from keeping appointments, even as patient needs remain constant. The annual observance serves as an important reminder of the lifesaving impact of routine blood donation nationwide.
The next blood drive at Chizuk Amuno is scheduled for Wednesday, March 25, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Click here to make an appointment, or call 1-888-8-BLOOD-8.
To help prevent blood shortages, BBD encourages donors to become All Seasons Lifesavers by making blood donation a routine part of their lives and giving at least once each season in 2026. BBD also offers additional donor frequency programs based on donation type, recognizing those who give consistently throughout the year. Learn more here.
Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit delmarvablood.org or call 1-888-8-BLOOD-8.
