EDITOR: While many people are thinking about summer vacation,
the American Red Cross is thinking about who will fill its chairs
at blood drives this summer and we
’re seeking your help.
EDITOR:
While many people are thinking about summer vacation, the American Red Cross is thinking about who will fill its chairs at blood drives this summer and we’re seeking your help. The Red Cross needs additional sponsors to hold blood drives at their businesses, organizations and/or schools throughout the summer.
New locations mean new donors. Sites are especially needed in Cupertino, Gilroy, Hollister, Los Gatos, Morgan Hill, Salinas, Santa Cruz and Watsonville.
Only 2-3 percent of people eligible to donate blood make donations.
Every month, the American Red Cross brings 30 percent of the blood it needs for Bay Area hospitals in from other states just to meet a minimum supply of two days worth of blood on the shelf. In case of disaster, the Red Cross would prefer to have a five- to seven-day blood supply available in Northern California.
We want to do everything possible to avoid a shortage of blood this summer. If we can’t find donors to take time out from their summer fun, elective surgeries could be postponed.
Sponsors need to be able to recruit a minimum of 40 donors from their friends, families, co-workers and business associates. They must also have at least a single room with 1000 empty and temperate square feet available for one day to hold the drive.
To donate blood, you must be 17 years or older, weigh at least 110 lbs. and be in good general health. Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or go online to www.BeADonor.com to make an appointment.
If you are interested in sponsoring a blood drive, contact South Bay Account Manager Lori Peterson with the American Red Cross at 510-773-2404.
Sara O’Brien, Communications
American Red Cross
Blood Services
