Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA to host monthly Red Cross blood drives

The Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA will begin hosting monthly blood drives thanks to its partnership with the American Red Cross of Western New York. The first blood drive of the series is set to take place from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, April 30.

A press release noted, “The drives will play a vital role in helping area hospitals combat the ongoing blood supply shortage, including those within the Buffalo and Niagara Falls region.”

“We are thrilled to partner with the Red Cross to host these monthly blood drives at Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA – and to be honest, they couldn’t come at a better time,” said John Doran, general manager. “Every two seconds in the United States, there is someone in critical need of blood, and the Red Cross is doing everything they can to rebuild their supply. By holding an ongoing series of drives, we hope we can do our part to help raise awareness for the good work of the Red Cross, and ensure that the community’s needs are met.”

The press release noted, “After declaring its first-ever national blood crisis in January, Red Cross blood inventory levels remain vulnerable. According to the Red Cross, in 2021 alone, first-time donors in Western New York decreased by 34% due to a number of circumstances, including the COVID-19 pandemic, weather-related closures and other seasonal factors. With no substitute for blood and no way to manufacture it, volunteer donors are essential for hospital patients in need of lifesaving treatment.”

“The need for blood is constant, and volunteer donors willing to roll up a sleeve and share their strength with patients in need are the only source,” said Nicholas Bond, chief regional executive, American Red Cross of Western New York. “That’s why community partners and drive hosts like the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA are vital to our mission of delivering help and hope. With inventory supplies still at vulnerable levels, it’s critically important that the Red Cross maintain a readily available blood supply for patients. We thank the Fashion Outlets of Niagara for their support in making that possible.”

Blood Drive Safety

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows a high level of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including face masks for donors and staff, regardless of vaccination status – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive.

To be eligible, a person must be at least 17 (16 with parental consent), be in good health, weigh at least 110 pounds (120 pounds if 16 years old), and present valid photo identification with signature. While all blood types are accepted, type O positive, type O negative and platelets are strongly needed.

Those considering donating can check additional eligibility requirements by visiting www.RedCrossBlood.org. Donors must register in advance for a time slot for the blood drive at the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA.

“We’ve held these drives in the past, and they have always been so impactful for the community,” Doran said. “If you’re eligible, consider making an appointment to stop by the Fashion Outlets and donate during one of our events – or even mark your calendar to come each month. It’s a simple process that can make a real difference.”

The 700,000-square-foot Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA is owned and managed by Macerich. For additional information, visit its website.