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Give something that means something: Blood or platelets

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newspaperThe american red cross asks eligible donors to give something that means something this holiday season – a lifesaving blood donation.

Blood donations often decline this time of year when donors get busy with holiday festivities and travel. Severe winter weather and seasonal illnesses, like the flu, can also have a serious impact on blood donations, but the need for blood remains steady. On average, the Red Cross must collect 15,000 blood products every day for patients across the country.

Eligible donors with all types are needed, especially those with O negative, A negative and B negative. To learn more about donating blood and to schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

 

Upcoming blood donation opportunities

12/11/2014: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Harrisonburg Rescue Squad, 1700 Reservior St. Harrisonburg
12/12/2014: 2:30 p.m. – 7 p.m., Valley Mall, 1925 E. Market Street Harrisonburg
12/14/2014: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Harrisonburg First Church of the Nazarene, 1871 Boyers Road Harrisonburg
12/15/2014: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Harrisonburg Rescue Squad, 1700 Reservior St. Harrisonburg

How to donate blood

Simply 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, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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