AECOM, Red Cross to Hold Historic Blood Drive at Grand Central

Commuters Encouraged to Roll Up Their Sleeves to Help Save Lives

With a history spanning the better part of a century, Grand Central Terminal has long stood as a symbol of the promise that entry into New York City holds.  Likewise, the American Red Cross has long served as a symbol of hope and humanitarian aid to those in need.  On Thursday, Aug. 9, 2012, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., these beacons of promise and hope will join together for a historic inaugural blood drive in Vanderbilt Hall of Grand Central Terminal, 89 E. 42nd Street. 

The blood drive is hosted by AECOM, a provider of professional technical and management support services to a broad range of markets, including transportation, facilities, environmental, energy, water and government. 

“AECOM and our employees have a long-standing history of partnering with, and supporting, the Red Cross,” said AECOM Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John M. Dionisio. “We are delighted to sponsor such an important event for the New York City metro area.”

The blood drive comes at a crucial time for the Red Cross, as summer months can take a toll on the blood supply, with high schools and colleges on break and many potential donors pursuing summer activities.  Unfortunately, patients don’t get a holiday from needing blood products.  The need is constant, and donations must be continual to provide for hospital patients in need.  Yet, despite this constant need, only 5 percent of the eligible population actually donates blood.

“Blood must be on hand when it’s needed to help save a life, whether it be a young mother who needs blood during a difficult childbirth, a friend or family member needing blood during cancer treatments or the victim of a traumatic injury who needs several units of blood in the emergency room,” said Donna M. Morrissey, Director, Communications, American Red Cross Blood Services – Northeast Division. “We are so pleased to work with AECOM to bring a historic opportunity to those who live or work in New York City to donate blood and experience giving the gift of life.”

As a special thank you for donating at this historic event, all presenting donors at the blood drive will receive a coupon for free container of Turkey Hill SunBrew™ iced tea and a special Red Cross gift.

Visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code AECOM or call 1-800-RED-CROSS to schedule an appointment.

About AECOM:

AECOM is a global provider of professional technical and management support services to a broad range of markets, including transportation, facilities, environmental, energy, water and government.  With approximately 45,000 employees around the world, AECOM is a leader in all of the key markets that it serves.  AECOM provides a blend of global reach, local knowledge, innovation and technical excellence in delivering solutions that create, enhance and sustain the world's built, natural, and social environments.  A Fortune 500 company, AECOM serves clients in more than 130 countries and had revenue of $8.2 billion during the 12 months ended March 31, 2012.  More information on AECOM and its services can be found at www.aecom.com.

About the American Red Cross:          

The American Red Cross has been a primary supplier of lifesaving blood products in the United States for more than 50 years. Eligible volunteer blood donors are asked to please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to find a blood drive and to make appointments.  Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in New York State), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to give blood. Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate.