Bloomfield Blood Drive Will Help Relieve Summer Shortages: Aug. 16 Event

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — Crucial blood shortages often occur during the summer months, according to the New Jersey-based Community Blood Services. And when that happens, the need for donations spikes.

Here’s how you can help on a local level in Bloomfield.

Community Blood Services will host 81 community blood drives throughout August, in 11 New Jersey counties and Orange County, NY. This includes a blood drive at the Bloomfield Health Department, 1 Municipal Plaza in Bloomfield, on Wednesday, Aug. 16, from 3 to 6 p.m.

Anyone planning to donate blood at one of Community Blood Services’ August donation events should call 201-251-3703 to confirm times and locations.

Don’t forget to visit the Patch Bloomfield Facebook page here.

According to Community Blood Services:

“Healthy individuals age 16 or older, who weigh at least 110 pounds, may donate blood; 16 and 17 year olds must have signed consent forms (available at www.communitybloodservices.com) and proof of birth date. Donors should eat a moderate meal prior to donating, and also bring identification showing their signature.”

The organization added:

“The process is quick and easy, and no advance registration is required. All donors will receive a free cholesterol screening, and in addition will be given access – exclusively on the day of their donation – to the online Donor Express health questionnaire, which helps to streamline the actual blood donation process.”

“We believe anyone who donates is providing an essential service to their community,” said Robert Kessler, Community Blood Services’ recruitment director. “It’s really that important. There’s a tremendous need, and we need people to step up and help their neighbors.”

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Patch file photo