Holiday Heroes Blood Drive In Newtown On July 5

The American Red Cross Blood Services Connecticut Region is putting out an urgent call to the public for more blood donors to step forward to avoid a serious blood shortage in Connecticut this summer.

“We need about 1,000 more people to donate blood now to avoid a serious shortage,” said Red Cross Chief Operating Officer Cherie Robinson. “We are on the verge of a crisis, but it can be avoided if more donors come forward.”

A Red Cross blood drive will be held in the Alexandria Room at Edmond Town Hall on Thursday, July 5, from 8:30 am to 6:45 pm.

Blood is urgently needed during the summer months, when donations traditionally decrease because many persons are on vacation. Blood is needed on a constant basis in the state for accident victims and those requiring complicated surgeries, as well as people undergoing chemotherapy and those with other life-threatening medical conditions.

Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh 110 pounds or more, and be in generally good health. To make an appointment to give blood call 800-GIVE LIFE (800-448-3543) or check the Web site at www.bloodct.org.