Community members encouraged to become local lifesavers
February 16, 2017
The city of Columbia and Mayor Steve Benjamin are once again teaming up with the American Red Cross in hopes of saving thousands of lives at the annual ‘Hoop It Up’ Blood Drive. The community is invited to join a lifesaving team at the blood drive on Friday, Feb. 24 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln St.
“The Columbia Lifesavers blood drive is a wonderful opportunity for us to partner with the city to save lives. Every pint of blood collected is a chance to help three patients in need,” said Patrick Lamontagne, district manager of the South Carolina Blood Services Region. “The city and Mayor Benjamin have answered the call to host this blood drive at a critical time. Donors are urgently needed to help maintain a sufficient blood supply.”
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Hospitals and patients depend on the generosity of volunteer blood donors. The entire donation process takes only about an hour and in that short time, blood donors can score a potentially lifesaving three-pointer: Each donation can help save the lives up to three patients.
“Giving blood is giving life, and we don’t take that for granted in our city,” said Mayor Benjamin. “I implore everyone who is able to donate blood and play a role in this incredible annual event.”
All presenting donors will receive a Red Cross T-shirt and are also eligible to receive a $5 Amazon.com gift card via email.
For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code famouslyhot.
Items and offers are nontransferable and are not redeemable for cash.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
