‘Neighbors Give Life’ Campaign Appeals For Blood Donations

HARTFORD — Grammy-winning music sensation Tim McGraw, State Farm Insurance and the American Red Cross are challenging neighbors across the country to give blood by making an appointment to donate or visiting their local blood drive.

From now through September 7, the “Neighbors Give Life” campaign will raise awareness about the importance of giving blood and the difference that even one donation can make. Visit www.neighborsgivelife.com to learn more about the program and how giving blood makes a strong impact in local communities.

“As part of the Neighbors Give Life campaign, I’m encouraging people to donate blood and donate often,” said Tim McGraw. “With State Farm and the American Red Cross, I challenge all people to give the gift of life and make a difference in their community and communities across the country by donating blood this year.”

In addition to the blood donation challenge, State Farm is sponsoring the Neighbors Give Life Sweepstakes. Prizes include a trip for two to the Country Music Association Awards; trip for two to a Tim McGraw concert; Tim McGraw tour jackets (some autographed); Tim McGraw Live Like You Were Dying CDs (some autographed); collectible Neighbors Give Life T-shirts (some autographed); and collectible Neighbors Give Life wristbands

No purchase or blood donation is required to participate in the sweepstakes. Visit www.neighborsgivelife.com to enter.

“We admire the American Red Cross and its continued efforts to make a difference in its local communities,” said Edward B. Rust, Jr., State Farm chairman and CEO. “State Farm and its 17,000 agents across the country are committed to building stronger neighborhoods. Neighbors Give Life does just that.”

People commonly underestimate the need for blood and the difference that even one donation can make to ensure blood is available when and where it’s needed. Nearly every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion. The blood donation process only takes about an hour to complete. This small commitment of time has a big impact since one donation can save up to three people.

“As much as 60 percent of the US population is eligible to donate blood; unfortunately, only five percent of those eligible to donate blood actually do in any given year. The Neighbors Give Life campaign is helping to educate people about the regular and on-going need for blood,” said Marsha J. Evans, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. “Every blood donation can help make a difference for someone in need of a transfusion.”

Anyone who is 17 or older, weighs 110 pounds or more and is in generally good health, is probably eligible to donate blood. Call 800-GIVE LIFE (448-3543) to make an appointment for any blood drive in Connecticut. Or request an appointment by visiting the website at www.bloodct.org . Positive ID is required at the time of the blood donation.