SMETHPORT— McKean County will host an employee and community blood drive from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Jan. 10 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, located at Main and Church streets in Smethport.
All donors will receive a free T-shirt in honor of National Blood Donor Month.
In January, typically the need for blood products is high and donations are low due to factors such as inclement weather and flu season. National Blood Donor Month was established to help create awareness about the need for blood donations.
“When you donate blood you give someone another chance at life—another day to spend with family and friends—another day to play in the snow or enjoy a walk with a loved one,” says Lora Cope, CBB mobile drive coordinator. “Your donation is a lifesaving gift to our community.”
According to FDA regulations, only volunteer blood donations can be used during blood transfusions. Annually, approximately 4.5 million Americans require blood products. Daily 40,000 pints of blood are given to those in need—including newborns, cancer, trauma and surgical patients.
“Your donation is important,” said Cope. “If you do not already give regularly, I would encourage you to make it part of your New Year’s resolution to give blood. It is a simple way to make a profound difference in the lives of others in need.”
To be eligible to donate, donors should be healthy, over 110 pounds and be at least 17 years of age or 16 with parental consent. Refreshments will be available to all donors.
For more information on the CBB, to schedule a blood donation appointment or to find out how to host a CBB drive, call 570-789-4026 or visit FourHearts.org.
