Area Blood Drives Are Scheduled

 Blood supplies are down as donors go on summer vacations. But the need for blood continues to increase as the Labor Day weekend approaches.

The Connecticut Region of the American Red Cross Blood Services reminds the public that each blood donation can save as many as three lives. Potential donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in generally good health.

Two area blood drives have been scheduled, one in Southbury and one in Newtown.

Mediplex of Southbury is sponsoring a blood drive on Wednesday, August 16, from 1:45 to 6:15 pm. The facility is located at 162 South Britain Road in Southbury. Call Holly Peterson at Mediplex at 264-9600 between 8 am and 4 pm to schedule an appointment.

A Holiday Hero blood drive will be held on Friday, September 1, at the United Methodist Church, 94 Church Hill Road, in Sandy Hook from 8:30 am to 7 pm.

“This is the Friday before a holiday weekend,” said Red Cross spokesperson Leah Banno. “It is important that we collect our goal of 600 units going into the holiday because the demand goes up.”

To make an appointment call 800/GIVE-LIFE.