March is Red Cross Month

Across the country, the American Red Cross is reminding communities that March is Red Cross Month.

Every two seconds, someone in the Unites States needs blood. By making an appointment to donate blood this month, you can help the Red Cross meet the needs of patients in your community and across the nation.

Because of the generous everyday support of blood and platelet donors, the Red Cross can help ensure every patient has the blood products they need, no matter when or where they are needed.

Red Cross Month was first proclaimed in 1943 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Since that time, every president, including President Barack Obama, has designated March as Red Cross Month. The American Red Cross has been helping people for more than 130 years.

How to Donate Blood

Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcross  blood.org 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 permission 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.

Blood Donation Opportunities

• March 7, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Stanton High School, 605 Elliott St., Stanton.

• March 8, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Montgomery County Hospital, 2301 Eastern Ave., Red Oak.

• March 9, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Essex High School, 111 Forbes St., Essex.

The Red Cross collects and distributes more than 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply and trains more than 9 million people in first aid, water safety and other lifesaving skills every year.