Blood Drive
Support the Red Cross Bloodmobile! On Friday, March 14th from 12:30PM to 5:30PM
Consider helping with our next Red Cross Blood Drive. When was the last time you gave an hour of your time and saved a life? The next time could be Friday March 14th when St. James’ hosts our spring Red Cross Bloodmobile.
There are a variety of ways that you can help. First, you can of course sign-up to give blood. The Red Cross recommends that you sign-up online. (Follow the links at redcrossblood.org) Signing up in advance helps the bloodmobile organizers marshal their resources and bring enough staff, equipment and supplies. Although walk-ins are welcome, you can help streamline your donation experience if you arrive for a scheduled appointment. Most anybody over the age of 17 can donate blood. If you are healthy and weigh more than 110 lbs. you are probably eligible to give; unfortunately, only about 2% of folks who can give, do. And blood cannot be manufactured – it can only come from generous donors. Never given blood before? No worries; staff are extra gentle with first timers.
Did you know: Healthy bone marrow produces a constant supply of red cells, plasma and platelets? So, your body easily replenishes the elements given during a donation – some in a matter of hours others within a few weeks. It’s easy; it doesn’t hurt or take long; the actual blood donation typically takes less than 10-12 minutes. From check-in to canteen, it’s just over an hour. The number one reason people say they give blood is because they “want to help others.”
And, it’s Lent! If you are looking to take on a Lenten discipline, instead of giving up something, why not add something. Donating blood can be the perfect marriage of faithful stewardship of our personal resources and fruitful outreach to those in need.
Schedule some time on Friday March 14th from 12:30-5:30pm to donate blood. Can’t stand the sight of blood? You can still support those who give by:
Ì helping with set up or clean up or
Ì greeting the donors at the welcome center, which is set up in the foyer or
Ì providing fruit, sandwiches or homemade goodies that we serve in the canteen or
Ì offering hospitality at the canteen upstairs in the parish hall
This type of volunteering supports both the Red Cross staff and the donors; it makes the whole process run smoother. Look for the sign-up sheets in the foyer or contact Jeannette Brown at (860) 519-7114 or jeannette.brown167@yahoo.com for more information.
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