Red Cross invites eligible donors to give blood in honor of military members, veterans

[October 26, 2013]  PEORIA -- Veterans Day is Nov. 11, and the American Red Cross invites eligible donors to schedule an appointment to give blood in November in honor of those who have served the country in the U.S. armed forces.

Blood donated through the Red Cross is distributed to about 2,700 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country for patients in need, including patients at many U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers. Blood transfusions help save lives every day, and all blood types are currently needed, especially O-negative, A-negative and B-negative.

Appointments to roll up a sleeve and donate can be made today by visiting www.redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Another way to support veterans, military families and active-duty service members at hospitals and installations around the world is by sending holiday cards through the annual Holiday Mail for Heroes program. Between now and early December, the Red Cross will collect the cards and distribute them. Learn more at www.redcross.org.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities in Logan County:

• Nov. 4, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at Lincoln Christian University, Route 10, Lincoln

• Nov. 8, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., at Hartsburg-Emden Jr./Sr. High School, 400 W. Front St., Hartsburg

How to donate blood

To make an appointment or for more information, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit www.redcrossblood.org. 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.

[Text from file received from 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, visit www.redcross.org or visit Twitter: @RedCross.