In response to a life-threatening situation facing a young child of two years old, several major chesed organizations, in collaboration with over a dozen Bikur Cholims, have engaged with Misaskim to coordinate this massive effort to test over 10,000 potential donors. The organizations include Matnas Chaim/Gift of Life, Hatzalah of Williamsburg and Kiryas Joel, Chaim Medical Resource, RCCS, Chai Lifeline, Refuah Helpline, Shomrim of Williamsburg, Chaverim of Williamsburg and Kiryas Joel, Bikur Cholim of KJ, d’Rabbeinu Yoel m’Satmar, and Yedidim of Kiryas Joel.

Because of the particular genetic make-up of Ashkenazi Jewry, it is usually close-to-impossible to find a match from the general population; thus the need to register thousands from within our community to find a suitable donor. While in past years, the taking of blood samples was necessary, today, a simple mouth swab that takes but seconds, and is totally painless, is required.

The drive will begin this Sunday, May 28, and take place at the following locations:
Williamsburg: Men at the Hatzalah garage/318 Penn Street, between 1:00pm-10:00pm; Women: ParkCare Community Health Network /445 Park Avenue, between 12 noon and 5:00pm.
Kiryas Joel: Men only @ 63 Forest Road between 1:00pm-10:00pm.

Other locations to follow.

Because of the large scope of this life-saving project, as well as the short time frame in which it needs to happen, Misaskim is coordinating this drive because of their experience with orchestrating other major events.

Due to medical regulations, this testing is for ages 18-45, only.

Please share this information with others!

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