Red Cross Grand ‘Re-Opening’ of North County Blood Donor Center

Post author:independentnws
Post published:August 22, 2012
Post category:Events
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The American Red Cross is holding a re-opening celebration at the donor center at 3533 Dunn Road in Florissant on Saturday, August 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Red Cross strives to make it easy to donate blood and platelets by having donor centers. Anyone who comes to donate at the center during the celebration will receive hot dogs and root beer floats. In addition, donors between the ages of 16 and 21 will be entered to win a $5,000 scholarship.

The Red Cross reports that this is a critical time. In late June, the organization issued an emergency appeal for blood. All blood types are needed to ensure that an adequate blood supply is available, though donors with type O negative, O positive, A negative, or B negative are especially encouraged to give at this time.

Every year, nearly 5 million people need blood transfusions. Thanks to dedicated donors, the Red Cross can support patients at about 3,000 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country as the largest blood supplier in the U.S.

To donate, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org for more information or to make an appointment. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be in general good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old (16 with completed Parental Consent Form). New height and weight restrictions apply to donors 18 and younger.