Lifelines (Fall 2002) - BCP Becomes A Victim Of Arson

BCP Becomes A Victim of Arson - But Community Takes Action
By Lisa Bloch

In early June, BCP’s newest bloodmobile was torched in a case of arson. The bloodmobile, which was a gift to BCP from two foundations, was set on fire during the early hours of June 1st, at BCP’s headquarters in San Francisco. BCP staff were shocked and saddened as they arrived for work the Monday after the incident.

“We’re deeply troubled by this crime, but even more devastating than the financial loss is the direct impact it will have on our ability to collect blood over the next several months.”

“We’re deeply troubled by this crime,” said President and CEO, Nora Hirschler, MD. “But even more devastating than the financial loss is the direct impact it will have on our ability to collect blood over the next several months.”

The $140,000 bus had been scheduled to collect more than 1,000 pints of blood at 42 blood drives in the coming months - it would’ve been booked for much more if it had not been torched. The crime came at a particularly difficult time for BCP, as it has been combating a serious summertime shortage since late May.

The arson resulted in heavy media coverage and interest by blood donors and the public. Bay Area residents generously donated money - and even more importantly — their blood to make up for the pints BCP would have collected at upcoming blood drives. Jamba Juice, a BCP blood drive sponsor made a generous financial contribution. Thank you Jamba Juice!

And in July, San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown’s office offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for the arson. Unfortunately, there have been no arrests in the case yet.