Hartsdale Blood Drive Honors 9/11 First Responder Peter Woods

HARTSDALE, NY — Your chance to honor a local hero is here — and you could save a life in the process.

The New York Blood Center will host a blood drive at Sacred Heart Church in Hartsdale on Sunday, March 8, 2026. The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the school gym, located at 59 Wilson Street. This annual drive honors Hartsdale resident Peter Woods, an NYPD Police Sergeant and former Hartsdale Fire Commissioner.

Peter Woods passed away after a 15-year battle with leukemia, which was related to his service as a first responder during the 9/11 attacks. His daughter, Anna Woods, continues to advocate for blood donations and is a dedicated donor herself. Peter Woods was a beloved figure in the Hartsdale community and a parishioner at Sacred Heart Church.

He was a strong advocate for blood donations and frequently spoke at New York Blood Center events. He urged people to donate blood to ensure its availability for those in need, similar to how it was available for him during his treatments. First responders are often exposed to toxic substances that increase their risk of developing cancers, including leukemia.

A 2015 study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) indicated that firefighters face an increased leukemia risk due to exposure to hazardous substances like benzene. Every blood donation helps ensure that cancer patients receive necessary treatment. Roughly one in seven hospital admissions requires a blood transfusion.

Those who need blood transfusions include cancer patients, accident victims, burn victims, trauma victims, newborn babies and their mothers, transplant recipients, and surgery patients. Blood donors are eligible to give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently updated several blood donor eligibility restrictions. Individuals can view current eligibility guidelines by visiting nybc.org or calling 800-688-0900.

To make an appointment for the blood drive, donors can call 1-800-933-2566. Those unable to donate blood can still support the New York Blood Center’s mission through financial contributions or by volunteering their time.