APEC to Host Blood Drive on Aug. 22

Alley Pond Environmental Center is scheduling appointments for donors who want to take part in the Douglaston site's Aug. 22 blood drive.

This will be the center's seventh annual drive. In past years, APEC has collected nearly 200 pints of blood, which are then donated to the New York Blood Center.

The drive will be held at APEC, which is located at 228-06 Northern Blvd., from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

To be eligible to give blood, visitors to the center must bring identification with a signature or photo and must weigh at least 110 pounds. Donors should be between the ages of 16 and 75 years.

Ages 76 and older must bring a doctor's note with them. Prior to giving blood, donors should eat low fat foods and drink plenty of fluids. Those who have gotten a tattoo in the past year will not be allowed to give blood.

Those interested in donating blood should email emcglinchey@alleypond.com or call 718-229-4000, ext. 200 between Monday and Friday to make an appointment.

Free babysitting will be available for parents who take part in the drive.