American Red Cross

(June 26, 2008) – July is filled with fireworks, hot dogs, parades and family traditions. The American Red Cross is joining the holiday spirit by holding three special blood drives around the July 4th holiday. Presenting blood donors at each of these drives will receive a t-shirt, a soda can huggie and will have a chance to win other prizes.

Upcoming holiday drives:

Thursday, July 3 American Red Cross, 204 S. Bloomington, Streator     11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thursday, July 3 First Baptist Church, 103 W. McKinley, Ottawa 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Monday, July 7 American Red Cross, 1530 4th St., Peru      12 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

This summer the Red Cross is reminding people that the need for blood doesn’t take a vacation. To ensure that patients in the area and around the nation have the blood they need, eligible blood donors are asked to give a little of themselves this summer and help Meet the Need.  Just 38 percent of the U.S. population is eligible to give blood, and only a fraction of those actually donate. If every eligible blood donor gave two or more times, there would not be a blood shortage.

“During the summer months, people travel and schools aren’t in session”, said Shelly Heiden, CEO of the Heart of America Blood Services Region. “This makes it particularly difficult for us to collect enough blood to meet the constant needs of patients around the country.”

Help the Red Cross Meet the Need this summer and give blood. When you give blood to the Red Cross, you can change a life, starting with your own. 

How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be at least 17 years old,  or 16 years old with a signed parent/guardian consent form and must weigh at least 110 pounds.

About the American Red Cross
Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross also helps ensure no patient goes without blood no matter where or when they need it. In addition to providing nearly half of the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.