Club slates blood drive

8 years ago

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The Presque Isle/Aroostook Band of Micmacs Boys and Girls Club will host a blood drive on Thursday, June 30, 2016 at its office on 7 Northern Rd. in Presque Isle.

The drive is scheduled from 1-6 p.m. All are welcome.

Donating blood is an easy way to help others and only takes about an hour, said BGC officials. Healthy individuals are needed every day to maintain an adequate blood supply for patients in need.

A few simple steps to prepare can help ensure a good donation experience. The American Red Cross recommends getting a good night’s sleep, drinking an extra 16 ounces of water, eating iron-rich foods to maintain a healthy iron level and consuming a low-fat meal before donating.

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.

Potential donors can download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to make an appointment or for more information.