MI Delegation To Host Red Cross Blood Drive Tuesday
FYI...this went out this afternoon from the American Red Cross...
Michigan RNC Delegates Host Blood Drive
Blood donations help boost local Red Cross blood supply, prepare it to
support Gulf Coast if needed
ST. PAUL, Minn. (Sept. 1, 2008) ˆ With many Republican National Convention events on hold while Hurricane Gustav barrels down on the Gulf Coast, the Michigan Republican Party, staying at the Northland Inn in Brooklyn Center, will help shore up local and national blood supplies by rolling up their sleeves and giving blood.
WHAT: American Red Cross Blood Drive
HOST: Michigan Republican Party
WHEN: Tuesday, September 2, 2008 ˆ 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
WHERE: Northland Inn, 7025 Northland Drive North, Brooklyn Center
The blood drive is expected to collect at least 95 donations, helping to build the local blood supply which can also be tapped to support the Gulf Coast area where blood donations will likely lag during the hurricane.
„We really appreciate this support. Blood donations above and beyond what‚s needed locally can be quickly sent to the Gulf Coast as needed to help patients,‰ said Rick Panning, CEO of the American Red Cross North Central Blood Services Region. „Those who donate blood through the Red Cross can help patients locally and patients throughout the country.‰
To donate blood simply call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.org 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. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 years old with a signed Red Cross parental/guardian consent form, must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health.
People are also encouraged to make financial donations to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. The Red Cross has already spent more than $12 million mobilizing disaster relief workers and supplies to the hurricane zone. „This is the largest Red Cross relief effort since Hurricane Katrina,‰ added Panning. Financial donations can be made online at redcross.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Cell phones can also be used to donate $5 to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund by text messaging the keyword "GIVE" to "2HELP" (24357). Donations will appear on monthly bills or be debited from a prepaid account balance. All applicable text rates apply.
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.
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