Anthony Palumbo Hosting Riverhead Blood Drive

RIVERHEAD, NY — With an emergency blood shortage in the area, New York State Assemblyman Anthony Palumbo is hosting a blood drive to meet the desperate need.

The blood drive will be held on Monday, July 17, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Tanger Outlet Center food court, located at 200 Tanger Mall Drive in Tanger 2 in Riverhead.

According to a flyer for the event issued by Palumbo, one donation can save up to three lives, someone needs blood every two seconds, the shelf life of donated red blood cells is 42 days, the shelf life of donated platelets is five days, an individual can donate every 56 days, and 17 percent of non-donors give the reason that they "never thought about it," for not giving.

Every donor will receive a McDonald’s coupon for a free large sandwich with any purchase.

To donate blood, you must be a minimum weight of 110 lbs., have not had a tattoo in 12 months, be between the age of 16 and 75 —16 year olds must have parental permission, and age 76 and over require a doctor’s note — and bring an ID with a signature or photo. Donors should eat well, with low-at foods, and drink fluids before the event, the release said.

The New York Blood Center has declared an emergency blood shortage in the area and is asking the public to find time to donate blood to help replenish the community’s blood supply.

According to NYBC, historically, during the summer months blood centers have had to focus on building up the community’s blood supply, as it tends to diminish due to seasonal factors.

The NYBC strives to maintain a seven-day inventory of all types of blood that must be continually replenished, especially O negative blood; O negative blood is considered “universal” – it is in high demand and in short supply, the NYBC said. Those with the 0 negative blood type are urged to consider donating.

“By spreading the word or even hosting your own blood drive, inviting friends, family and community organizations, you may save lives in your community,” said Andrea Cefarelli, executive director of NYBC. “We are in dire need of O negative blood with a reserve that is currently below a two day supply — and that is just too low.”

For questions about medical eligibility, call the New York Blood Center at 1-800-688-0900. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, contact Palumbo's office at 631-727-0204; walk ins are welcome.