During National Minority Health Month, communities across North Carolina are coming together to raise awareness about health disparities and take meaningful action to support community well-being. At Jack and Jill of America blood drives held throughout the state, families gather as children make cards, teens welcome donors and parents roll up their sleeves. These moments reflect a simple truth. When communities show up for one another, they help save lives.

For more than half of America’s history, the American Red Cross has worked alongside partners to help people from all backgrounds care for one another. During National Minority Health Month, the Red Cross is highlighting partnerships like this one with Jack and Jill of America that expand access to care, share lifesaving information and help bridge health gaps in communities across North Carolina.

Why this partnership matters

The need for blood is constant, and maintaining a reliable blood supply is essential for all patients, especially those living with chronic and acute conditions. Sickle cell disease affects more than 100,000 people in the United States and often requires a lifetime of blood transfusions. Many patients need closely matched blood to reduce the risk of transfusion-related complications and support better health outcomes.

People living with sickle cell disease often face barriers to accessing comprehensive care. Because blood type is inherited, donors who share a similar genetic background are often a closer match for patients who rely on frequent transfusions. This is why engaging more Black blood donors plays a critical role in strengthening community health and helping ensure lifesaving blood is available when it is needed most.

“As a mom and a member of Jack and Jill of America here in North Carolina, I see how powerful it is when our communities come together to care for one another,” said Miltia Grady-Wheatley. “Blood type is inherited, just like eye color, so having donors from all backgrounds truly matters. For families impacted by sickle cell disease, closely matched blood can make a real difference in health and quality of life. When diverse donors step forward, we are helping ensure our neighbors receive the most compatible care possible.”

Community impact in 2026

Jack and Jill chapters across North Carolina are already making a meaningful impact in fiscal year 2026. The Eastern North Carolina, Fayetteville and Upper Palmetto chapters have hosted multiple blood drives so far this year, collecting more than 60 units of blood. More than five donors were first-time donors, helping strengthen and diversify the blood donor base.

These donations have helped save more than 180 lives, supporting patients experiencing medical emergencies, managing chronic conditions or facing complications related to childbirth and other serious health needs.

“Our partnership with the American Red Cross reflects our deep commitment to community wellness,” said Maria Bright, Eastern North Carolina Chapter president of Jack and Jill of America Inc. “Blood drives are a simple yet profound act of service. One donation can save multiple lives, and together, we make that impact possible.”

Looking ahead

As National Minority Health Month draws attention to ongoing health disparities, Jack and Jill chapters and the Red Cross are continuing this work throughout the year. Through future blood drives, education efforts and youth leadership engagement, families will help ensure that lifesaving blood remains available for patients who depend on it.

How you can help

Community members can make an immediate impact by donating blood at a Jack and Jill hosted drive or encouraging a first-time donor to make an appointment. Donations help ensure blood is available for patients with sickle cell disease, people experiencing trauma and mothers and birthing people facing life-threatening complications.

Appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org or through the Red Cross Blood Donor App. All presenting blood donors receive a free mini health screening, including insights such as pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin levels, which can help individuals better understand their own health.

Jack and Jill of America in North Carolina

North Carolina is home to 12 Jack and Jill of America chapters, all part of the organization’s Mid-Atlantic Region, which also includes chapters across South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia. Together, these chapters bring families across the state together around leadership development, volunteer service and civic engagement.