For nearly 45 years, the South Foster Volunteer Fire Company has been showing what can happen when a community comes together around a shared purpose: helping patients in need.
The partnership between South Foster Volunteer Fire Company and Rhode Island Blood Center began on December 28, 1981. Since then, the organization has hosted more than 250 blood drives, collecting 5,775 blood donations. With each donation having the potential to help up to three patients, that represents a potential impact on as many as 17,325 lives.
But behind those numbers is a story about people and an enduring commitment to the community.
Georgianna Knox, pictured in the middle, became involved with the blood drives shortly after the tradition began and has remained a dedicated part of the effort ever since. Her involvement extends far beyond the blood drives. Georgianna is deeply committed to the Foster community and regularly takes on a variety of local projects and initiatives that bring people together and support those around her.
The South Foster blood drive takes place 12 times a year, making this far more than an annual event. It is a sustained commitment that has continued across generations and through nearly five decades of change.
As the partnership approaches its 45th anniversary on December 28, 2026, the milestone offers an opportunity to recognize everyone who has helped make it possible: the volunteers who organize each drive, the donors who take the time to join us, and the members of the Foster community who continue to show up for patients who need them.
Thank you to South Foster Volunteer Fire Company and everyone who has been part of this incredible 45-year tradition.