'Blood is Blood' partners with American Red Cross of WNY to hold Gay Alliance blood drive

On Wednesday, Dec. 14, Good Deeds Buffalo and the Red Cross of Western New York Pride Resource Group will host their semiannual “Blood is Blood” Gay Alliance blood drive at the American Red Cross of Western New York office at 786 Delaware Ave.

The drive marks the anniversary of the inaugural “Blood is Blood” drive; another event was held in June. The timing coincides with a period of need for the Red Cross and the nation’s blood supply as holiday travel, seasonal illnesses (such as flu, RSV and coronavirus) and winter weather usually result in a drop in donations in December. Donors are encouraged to make an appointment to give blood or platelets as soon as possible.

As a thank you, all those who come to give through Dec. 16 will receive a $10 Amazon.com gift card by email, thanks to Amazon. Those who come to donate from Dec. 16 through Jan. 2, 2023, will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross shirt. Visit RedCrossBlood.org for more details.

While space is limited, donors of all blood types who are feeling healthy and are eligible are encouraged to make an appointment for this drive or others in the days and weeks to come by using the Red Cross blood donor app, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% 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 redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit on Twitter at @RedCross.