Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara will be hosting a blood drive on Friday, September 11^th, in conjunction with the American Red Cross. Santabarbara’s drive will help support local hospitals, like St. Mary’s in Amsterdam.

“Whether supporting a victim of a traumatic injury or a patient undergoing chemotherapy treatment, donating blood helps give those in need another chance at life,” Santabarbara said. “It’s always important to be reminded of the lifesaving potential we each hold. Our community always comes together to provide support after tragedies strike, but donating blood is a powerful way to proactively help those going through challenging times.”

The American Red Cross has announced that there is a critical need for blood donations. While donors of all blood types are needed, Type O-negative donors are especially important because their blood can be given to anyone.[1] Only 7% of people nationwide are Type O-negative, so it’s often in short supply and high demand. Blood donations are necessary for surgeries, cancer treatments and transplants, and a single blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives, Santabarbara noted.^[2]

Anyone who wants to donate blood but could not attend the event at the Century Club in Amsterdam, can visit the American Red Cross Web site to find an upcoming blood drive in the community. The website also has information about eligibility requirements to donate blood based on the type of donation.

[1] news10.com/news/local-news/red-cross-encouraging-people-to-give-blood

[2] redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/how-blood-donations-help/blood-needs-blood-supply.html