The American Red Cross encourages eligible blood donors to start a lifesaving habit by becoming a regular blood donor this year, starting with National Blood Donor Month in January.
January is a challenging time for blood donations. Inclement weather can result in blood drive cancellations, and cold and flu season may cause some donors to be unable to make or keep blood donation appointments. National Blood Donor Month, celebrated in January since 1970, raises awareness of the need for blood during the winter and throughout the year, while honoring those who roll up a sleeve to help patients in need.
Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with O negative, A negative and B negative. Type O negative is the universal blood type and can be transfused to patients with any blood type. Types A and B negative can be transfused to Rh positive or negative patients.
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
| 1/19/2015: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m., Harrisonburg Rescue Squad, 1700 Reservior St. | Harrisonburg |
| 1/22/2015: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., James Madison University Psi Chi, 800 South Main Street | Harrisonburg |
| 1/22/2015: 2 p.m. – 7 p.m., McGaheysville United Methodist Church, 10106 McGaheysville Road | Mc Gaheysville |
| 1/27/2015: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., James Madison University Catholic Campus Ministries, 1052 South Main St | Harrisonburg |
| 1/28/2015: 9 a.m. – 11:45 a.m., Department of Environmental Quality, 4411 Early Rd | Harrisonburg |
| 1/28/2015: 2:15 p.m. – 5:15 p.m., White Birch Communities, 847 Oakwood Dr | 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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