06/27/12 America’s blood supply is an important piece of our country’s ability to respond to disasters. By donating blood, people can help prepare for the unexpected and help ensure blood is available when and where it’s needed.
Making an appointment to donate blood during Disaster Education and Awareness Month this July is one way to help prepare for the unexpected. Another is to talk to friends and family about the importance of giving blood. A third is to consider volunteering at or sponsoring an American Red Cross blood drive.
Every day, hospitals need more than 44,000 blood donations for the care of serious diseases, accidents or trauma. And when disaster strikes, the need can be greater, depending on the severity and scope.
The Red Cross has the unique ability to move blood around the country through its National Inventory Management System, which helps meet patient need during times of disaster or shortages.
UPCOMING AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES IN OUR AREA INCLUDE:
- Thursday, July 5, from noon until 5:30 p.m. at Argos United Methodist Church in the Fellowship Hall, located at 540 N. Michigan St. in Argos.
- Wednesday, July 11, from 10:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at Culver-Union Township Public Library in the lower level Meeting Room, located at 107 N. Main St. in Culver.
- Saturday, July 14, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Wal-Mart, located at 2505 N. Oak Road in Plymouth.
How to Donate Blood
To schedule an appointment to donate please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org for more information. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in Indiana and Ohio), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate.
