WEST CHESTER, PA — West Chester first responders are helping patients battle illness and injury this summer by hosting their first Boots and Badges blood drive on Thursday, June 6. The drive will run from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. at Goshen Fire Company, 1320 Park Ave., West Chester.
Presenting donors will receive a free T-shirt, while supplies last. They will also receive a $5 Amazon gift card by email. (Restrictions apply; see amazon.com/gc-legal. More information and details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Together.) Prizes and gifts are not redeemable for cash.
Appointments are strongly encouraged. To schedule an appointment to donate, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter sponsor code bootswc or call 1-800-REDCROSS.
“Our first responders know, firsthand, how important it is to have blood readily available for emergencies,” said Alana Mauger, communications manager, Red Cross Penn Jersey Blood Services Region. “We’re thrilled that West Chester community has stepped up to the challenge!
The Red Cross currently has a critical shortage of type O blood. Right now, type O blood is being distributed to hospitals faster than donations are coming in. Type O donors ─ and donors of all types ─ are urged to give now to help ensure blood is on the shelves for patients when every second matters.
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 in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), 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 must meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass®to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
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 CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.