Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster, the City of Long Beach and the Red Cross will host a blood drive on Wednesday, Sept. 9 from 10:45am to 3:45am at the Long Beach Main Library, 101 Pacific Ave.
“I know Long Beach residents generously give back to the community
by giving their time and money,” said Foster. “This is an
opportunity for people to give a life-saving gift by donating their
blood and time.”
The Red Cross serves more than 150 hospitals in Southern California,
including four in the Long Beach area. The goal for the Red Cross is
to maintain a three-day supply since one blood user can seriously
reduce the available blood supply. Having enough blood in supply is
necessary for routine treatments and emergency needs. Blood is
needed for people with cancer and blood disorders that require blood
transfusion in order to survive.
“This blood drive provides a unique opportunity for the City of
Long Beach to emphasize the need for ongoing donations and the
critical importance of blood for hundreds of patients in the Long
Beach area. Local residents, employers and employees, and frequent
visitors can make an immediate impact with just one summer blood
donation” said Cliff Numark, director of Donor Recruitment for the
American Red Cross Southern California Blood Services Region.
Throughout the year, less than three percent of eligible Southern
California donors actually donate blood. According to Numark, shelf
stock can reach minimal levels during the summer months and raise
daunting challenges for local hospitals. In past years, hospitals
have postponed surgeries while doctors triaged patients to determine
those with the greatest blood needs.
Requirements for eligibility to donate are minimal. Donors must be
in general good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 17
years of age. Lastly, an acceptable form of identification is needed
before proceeding to donate.
Scheduling an appointment is recommended to avoid waiting, but
walk-ins are gladly accepted. Call Heather Murdock at (562)
570-7162 to make an appointment.
More Information
(562) 570-6801
www.longbeach.gov/mayor
