The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood this May in honor of World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on May 8 – the birthday of International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement founder Henry Dunant.
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day recognizes the local and global impact of the Red Cross mission. For more than 130 years, the American Red Cross has been helping people, including those in need of blood transfusions, in communities across the United States. It is the only blood services organization that also provides disaster relief, services for active and veteran military personnel and their families, and health and safety training.
Last year, about 3.1 million volunteer blood donors rolled up a sleeve to help the Red Cross meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals nationwide. Donors of all blood types – especially those with types O negative, A negative, and B negative – are needed to help ensure blood is available for patients this spring.
There will be two opportunities to give blood in Windham County.
On Tuesday, May 5, the bloodmobile will be at Carl M Dessaint VFW Post 1034, 40 Black Mountain Rd., Brattleboro, from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Deerfield Valley residents can go to the blood drive at Twin Valley High School, 4299 Route 100, Whitingham, on Thursday, May 7, from noon to 5 p.m.
To give blood, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) 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.
Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.