Monday, June 19, 2017 12:00PM—Councilman Jimmie L. Williams, III will host a press conference at Homestead City Hall (100 Civic Court, Homestead, FL 33030) announcing State funds received by the City of Homestead for new sickle cell disease research clinic. Councilman Williams will be accompanied by representatives from the intended funding recipient, Foundation for Sickle Cell Research, and other elected officials who helped secure the funding.
The Foundation for Sickle Cell Research will open a research and care clinic in Homestead to service residents living with Sickle Cell Disease. Sickle Cell Disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in the United States, affecting approximately 70,000 to 80,000 Americans, including 1 in 500 African-Americans and one in every 1,000 to 1,400 Hispanic-Americans. Florida has the highest rate of Sickle Cell births and the highest number of people living with the disease in the United States. Miami-Dade County is part of the area in South Florida where most Sickle Cell Disease patients live.
The Sickle Cell gene was first introduced to the U.S. in 1789 via the transatlantic slave trade. The disease has a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life, causing both physical and economic hardship, and often contributing to early death.
Following the Press Conference, a Blood Drive for Sickle Cell Disease will be held until 5PM at Homestead City Hall in the OneBlood “Big Red Bus.” All donors will receive a free movie ticket and wellness checkup.
For more information, please contact Salena Meeks at (305) 224-4456 or smeeks@cityofhomestead.com.