AIHce Gives Back
Each year, AIHce tries to give a little back to its host community. This year, show organizers encourage registrants to participate in the annual blood drive, donate to the Samaritan House or -- do both.
The blood drive, sponsored by Bonfils Blood Center, will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. both Monday and Tuesday on the Expo floor, Hall F. It takes only 45 minutes to do the deed. Organizers note that donations are always in short supply, but this year, in the wake of the recent headline-making disasters in Haiti and China, there's more of a need than ever.
The Samaritan House serves the needs of the underserved homeless and families with children. The local facility can accommodate more than 320 men, women, and children each night. Residents receive a bed, food, clothing, and various services, including case management, medical care, and referrals for employment, social service assistance, and educational opportunities. The House is particularly busy now with the economic recession and severely in need of donations, especially small toiletries for men and women, as well as office supplies. Donations may be dropped off at the Info Kiosk in the convention center lobby.