MONROE — During the pandemic, the team at Monroe Truck Equipment in Monroe has been finding novel ways to support the larger Monroe community. Recently, a team member heard about the American Red Cross’s decline in donations and decided to rally the team around the cause.

The team organized the blood drive for Sept. 21 at its Monroe location. As an incentive for participating, a Monroe team member, who prefers to remain anonymous, thoughtfully offered to purchase a scoop of Culver’s ice cream for every person who donated blood. 

When the employee contacted Culver’s to coordinate this plan, the spirit of generosity carried through and the owner offered to sponsor the blood drive themselves. Culver’s then donated a whole pint of custard to each participant in the blood drive. 

The “Pint for a Pint” program was a success. There were 52 pints of blood donated to the American Red Cross. Donations will be used for a variety of life-saving treatments, including surgeries, cancer treatments, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries, with each donation saving up to three lives.