Local Red Cross Chapter Seeking Blood Donors

The Greater Somerset County Chapter of the American Red Cross will be holding an open blood drive on Saturday, August 21, hosted by Somerville Lumber Company (date and time below). 

To be eligible, donors must be at least 110 pounds, 16 years of age and in good general health.  While the demand for blood transfusions is growing more rapidly than donations, only about 2.5 percent of the eligible population donates.  Due to these low statistics, New Jersey hospitals had to use $18 million to $24 million in 2007 to buy supplies from other states.                 

In addition to the general shortages, there is currently a special need for Type O negative.  The American Red Cross' supply of this blood type has dipped to critically low levels.  O negative is always in high demand as it can be transfused to patients with any blood type, which is especially important in an emergency situation.  Donors with O negative type blood are encouraged to consider donating as soon as possible.

Amy Sutton, CEO for the Greater Somerset County Chapter, said in a press release, "We need people to donate and to do so frequently.  I have never met a person who needed lifesaving blood who ever thought they would be in that situation.  We need residents' help to ensure that New Jersey has a robust blood supply."

The Red Cross encourages those who are eligible to donate to consider giving the gift of life.  One simple donation can save three lives.  This blood drive is completely open; appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.  To make your appointment, visit redcrossblood.org.

Below is the date, time and location for the blood drive:

Saturday, August 21, 2010

9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Somerville Lumber Company
1480 Route 22 East
Bridgewater, NJ 08807

About the American Red Cross Greater Somerset County Chapter:  The Red Cross is a volunteer-led non-profit organization that provides relief to victims of disasters and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. The American Red Cross Greater Somerset County chapter is working to help make the community resilient, able to survive and recover quickly from disasters and emergencies.  The chapter offers residents Be Red Cross Ready preparedness education, services to armed forces, lifesaving health and safety training, medical transportation, blood donation services, and a Lifeline personal emergency response service program. Your gift supports the lifesaving mission of the American Red Cross in your community, across the country and around the world.  For more information, call (908) 725-2217 or visit www.american-redcross.org.