York Regional Police

York Region, Ontario

“As first responders, police officers know very well the importance of blood donations, and we’re proud to host regular clinics for our staff,” says Jim MacSween, chief of York Regional Police (YRP).

YRP’s engagement with Canadian Blood Services takes many forms. In 2011, YRP detective Ashley Smith organized a blood donor event in honour of constable Garrett Styles, who died while on duty. It’s since become an annual event. Andrew Quibell, a longtime donor and YRP sergeant, organizes three or four events every year at the YRP headquarters in Aurora, each of which collects more than 300 units. In 2015, YRP produced a short video to raise awareness and to encourage blood donations by employees. To further increase donations, YRP partners with the York Regional Police Association, the Newmarket RCMP and the Aurora Ontario Provincial Police detachment to promote blood donor events.

“We’re grateful to all members of YRP, our emergency responder partners and members of the community who donate blood, as we know it saves lives every day,” says chief MacSween. “We thank them all as we accept the honour of being recognized by Canadian Blood Services.”