Donors check in at the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple drive on July 20, an effort to increase donations during summer, when they tend to go down.
A steady stream of donors filed through 1 Carnegie Plaza on July 20 as the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Cherry Hill hosted a blood drive in partnership with New York Blood Center Enterprises.
The six-hour drive drew residents from across South Jersey for a day of giving and service, including Sapana Raval, vice president of the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club, who pointed out that the need for blood donations in the state is critical.
“Summer months tend to see a drop in donations,” she explained. “Meanwhile, hospitals continue to rely on steady supplies for surgeries, trauma and cancer care. We also have to be prepared for emergencies and natural disasters that increase demand.”
“The motivation behind organizing this blood drive at the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple stems from our deep commitment to serving the community and fostering a culture of giving,” said Kiritkumar (KD) Patel, one of the drive’s organizers.
“Blood donation is a vital act that can save lives,” Patel added. “By hosting this event at our temple, we aimed to inspire our community members to contribute to a noble cause.”
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, a globally recognized Hindu spiritual organization, is known for combining spiritual growth with community service. The blood drive reflected that dual mission, said another organizer.
“This initiative truly embodies the values of compassion and unity that are central to our faith,” Yogini Patel related. “Our partnership with the New York Blood Center was founded on a shared vision of making a positive impact on public health. Their experience and support helped us make this event a success.”
Blood drive volunteers managed check-ins and refreshments, with medical professionals on hand to guide each donor through the process.
“The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive,” KD Patel pointed out. “We had many donors walk in and express gratitude for the opportunity. The energy here today is inspiring.”
Raval praised the drive’s calming atmosphere.
“Staff were very attentive, making sure everyone felt safe and informed,” she said. “It’s not just about the blood – it’s about creating a positive experience so people will want to donate again.”
Raval also offered quick after-care tips for donors: “Stay hydrated, eat something light after donating and avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day. Most importantly, feel proud of your contribution – and consider doing it again.”
Organizers confirmed that the temple’s blood drive won’t be its last.
“We’re committed to doing this every year,” promised Yogini Patel. “This isn’t just a one-time act. It’s part of a larger mission to serve our neighbors and encourage a spirit of giving.”
