The Port Arthur Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. successfully hosted a blood drive and health fair on January 17, 2026, at Empowerment Church. This event aimed to raise awareness of sickle cell disease and promote health and wellness within the community. Participants engaged in various activities focused on health education, prevention, and service.
Chapter President Lady Riya Chaisson emphasized that the event supported the sickle cell project, which is dedicated to raising awareness and assisting those affected by this condition. “Our chapter hosted the Live Well Community Event paired with a Sickle Cell Support Blood Drive. This blended community health experience united healthcare providers, wellness professionals, mental health advocates, youth leaders, and local organizations,” Chaisson stated.
The event highlighted the critical importance of proactive healthcare, particularly in underserved communities where conditions like sickle cell disease disproportionately impact families. Attendees learned about early detection, healthy lifestyle practices, and the vital role blood donations play in saving lives. Chaisson noted, “The event is designed to support Good Health Wins priorities by increasing awareness around immunizations and strengthening preventive health education.”
Volunteers from the Port Arthur Chapter collaborated with community partners to ensure the event’s success. Founded in 1964, Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. has a longstanding mission to promote educational, humanitarian, and civic service initiatives.
Dr. Janice Milo, Pastor of Empowerment Church and a committee member of the Sickle Cell Disease Program, highlighted the significance of the church’s involvement in such health initiatives. “Hosting a health fair and blood drive at a church allows the church to be a partner in directly addressing health disparities,” she explained. “Every donation can save multiple lives. Health fairs provide free screenings for conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol levels, enabling early detection and treatment.”
Throughout the day, attendees received valuable information about preventive care, nutrition, and wellness practices. They also learned about available health services, local resources, and support networks, making it easier to access necessary care.
The youth auxiliary, Top Teens of America, also contributed to the event by assisting with logistics and community engagement. Their involvement reinforced the chapter’s commitment to community service and highlighted the ongoing need for health initiatives in Port Arthur.
For those interested in learning more about upcoming events, the Port Arthur Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. maintains an active presence on social media, particularly on its Facebook page. The success of the blood drive and health fair marked a significant step forward in enhancing community health awareness and support.
