YMCA partners with American Red Cross to host community blood drive

The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA will host a community blood drive with the American Red Cross on Sunday, July 24 from 9:00am to 2:00pm at the YMCA, 1340 Martine Avenue in Scotch Plains.

For more information or to make an appointment to donate, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org with sponsor code Fanwood-ScotchPlains.

“Hosting a blood drive coincides with the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA’s core values of giving back to the community,” said Jennifer Donahue, the Y’s Senior Program Director. “With a simple blood donation, we have the ability to help save the life of someone who could be a coworker, loved one or neighbor.”

Blood is routinely transfused to patients with cancer and other diseases, premature babies, organ transplant recipients and trauma victims, according to the Red Cross.

“The short amount of time it takes to donate can mean a lifetime to a patient with a serious medical condition. We urge eligible donors to join us in the selfless act of giving blood,” Donahue said.

Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with types O negative, B negative and A negative. According to the Red Cross, type O negative is the universal blood type that can be safely transfused to anyone, and is often used to treat trauma patients.

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The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA is dedicated to improving the quality of life of the individuals, families and communities it serves through programs and services that build wholeness of spirit, mind and body. The YMCA is a not-for-profit organization founded on Christian principles, serving people of all ages, races, faith, cultures and socio-economic conditions. For information please call the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA at (908) 889-8880 or visit https://fspymca.org. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.