When keiki suffer from serious illness, families need serious support. HUGS provides this support — strengthening families across the state. This summer, Blood Bank of Hawaii is helping shore up HUGS as a safe harbor for local families.
Every blood donation made between June 1 and August 31 will count as one hug. We’ll deliver these on your behalf — for programs and amenities such as hospital care kits that HUGS families need during their stay — to the 350 children and 1,900 family members currently enrolled in HUGS Hawaii.
What is HUGS? Help. Understanding. Group Support.
A 40-year-old nonprofit, HUGS fully supports Hawaii families whose children have conditions ranging from cancer to kidney diseases or cystic fibrosis. Volunteers assist with the logistics involved in long or frequent hospital stays, help with flights to reach specialized care, offer stress relief assistance for overwhelmed parents and host playdates for siblings.
“It was such a blessing to get together with other parents — without kids — who get us. Who understand how complicated and stressful life is having a child with a medical condition,” a HUGS parent on Oahu told us.
When you donate blood this summer, you’re also virtually hugging a local family. And every donation — whole blood, platelets or plasma — counts.
You can also share your hugs online. Hugging is a social activity, after all. Tag your photos or inspo posts with #GiveBlood4HUGS to encourage more giving.
Give blood this summer and share a hug – one blood donation at a time. Reserve your appointment today!
