A call to mobilize support for life-giving donations during Faith and Hope Month

More than 100,000 Americans currently await an organ transplant.

As the need for life-giving transplants continues during the pandemic, Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network in Itasca calls on religious communities in the area to encourage organ, eye and tissue donation during Faith and Hope Month this November.

Faith and Hope Month serves as a time to reflect on faith-based perspectives on organ, eye and tissue donation and transplantation, and teachings that call on individuals to give to others through donation. Gift of Hope celebrates people whose faith has inspired the gift of life and healing to others.

"Our diverse religious traditions and faith communities throughout Illinois and northwest Indiana share the virtues of compassion and generosity that the gifts of organ, eye and tissue donation embody," said Harry Wilkins, M.D., president/CEO of Gift of Hope. "We ask all people of all faiths to discuss becoming organ, eye and tissue donors, to offer hope to all those in need."

Throughout November, faith leaders and advocates will work with Gift of Hope to honor organ, eye and tissue donors and their families, and educate congregants, worshippers and members about donation and transplantation.

Gift of Hope provides information at www.giftofhope.org/donation-campaigns for all houses of worship, faith communities and advocates to use in sharing donation education and discussing faith teachings and perspectives.