Blood Drive Today in East Haddam

The American Red Cross is holding a blood drive today from 12pm-5:15pm at the Nathan Hale-Ray High School in Moodus at 15 School Drive. 

You don't need a specific reason to donate, other than knowing that you have the power to help save a life. The process of donating is simple and includes a registration, mini physical, the donation itself and a refreshment afterwards.

Before donating, have a light meal ahead of time with plenty to drink. Remember to bring with you a list of any medications you are taking, your donor card and driver's license or two other forms of identification.

The American Red Cross is a humanitarian volunteer-based organization that is dedicated to assisting people in times of disaster and helping people prepare for and respond quickly to emergencies.

The American Red Cross website states that the American Red Cross is "the largest single supplier of blood and blood products in the United States, collecting and processing more than 40 percent of the blood supply and distributing it to some 3,000 hospitals and transfusion centers nationwide."

A key component of the Red Cross is to provide life-saving blood and blood products in times of emergency and disasters.  The Red Cross began its National Blood Donor Services program in 1941 to collect blood for the U.S. Military during World War II. In 1948, the organization began its first nationwide civilian program with the opening of a collection center in Rochester, NY.

Today, the American Red Cross is also a key player in research and testing to ensure a safe blood supply in times of need. Additional information can be found here.

For questions about donating, contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED CROSS (733-2767).