American Red Cross Urges Donations Around Labor Day
Labor Day is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers and is a time to celebrate the well-being of our country. Donating blood is a noble way to celebrate the hard work Americans have done to strengthen our country. As families celebrate the holiday, the Red Cross encourages eligible donors to schedule an appointment to donate blood.
All blood types are needed, especially O negative, B negative, and A negative. Type O negative, the universal blood type, can potentially be transfused to patients with any blood type.
To show appreciation for those who help save lives near the Labor Day holiday (August 29 - September 7), all presenting donors at Red Cross blood drives and blood donation centers in the Heart of America will automatically be entered for a chance to win a $500 gas card. This is a part of the Red Cross' summer-long Good to Give. Good to Go. promotion that also offers a chance for one lucky donor (21 and older) in the Mid-America Blood Services Division to win a trip for four (4) to Orlando, Florida.
"During the holiday weekend, we typically see a dip in blood donations, but the need is constant. Donating blood is an easy way to help others and only takes about an hour of your time," said Shelly Heiden, CEO of the Heart of America Red Cross Blood Services region. "The Red Cross encourages donors to give blood each time they are eligible; every 56 days for whole blood donations and 112 days for double red cell donations."
How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information.
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 permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are generally in 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
Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross also helps ensure no patient goes without blood no matter where or when they need it. In addition to providing nearly half of the nation's blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.
Blood Donation Opportunities
CLINTON COUNTY
9/11/2011, 8:00 am-12:00 pm, Assumption Catholic Church, 147 Broadway Street, Charlotte
WHITESIDE COUNTY
9/3/2011, 7:00 am-11:00 am, Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St., Rock Falls
9/3/2011, 8:00 am-12:00 pm, Old Fulton Fire Station, 912 4th Street, Fulton
9/6/2011, 8:00 am-11:00 am, Old Fulton Fire Station, 912 4th Street, Fulton
9/7/2011, 2:00 pm- 6:00 pm, Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St., Rock Falls
9/8/2011, 3:00 pm- 8:00 pm, Tampico Fire Department, 103 North Main Street, Tampico
9/13/2011, 1:00 pm- 5:15 pm, Old Fulton Fire Station, 912 4th Street, Fulton
9/14/2011, 10:00 am- 2:00 pm, Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St., Rock Falls
