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Red Cross continues blood drives in wake of severe weather

by jmaloni

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Mon, Nov 24th 2014 09:00 pm

Erie County Legislator Kevin Hardwick urges donors to give blood

As the Buffalo area continues to dig out from a historic storm, the American Red Cross is helping people in need by operating shelters and collecting blood.

Dozens of blood drives were cancelled because of the storm. While the blood supply is sufficient, the need for blood doesn't get a snow day.

An American Red Cross blood drive, sponsored by Erie County Legislator Kevin Hardwick, will take place from 1-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25, at the Grand Island Fire Co. firehall, 2275 Baseline Road.

The Red Cross encourages all eligible donors to give something that means something this holiday season, by giving blood or platelets. Blood donors of all types are needed, particularly O negative, A negative and B negative.

How to donate blood

Download the American Red Cross blood donor app, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, visit www.redcrossblood.org.

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