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Union County Residents Urged to Donate Blood to Meet Critical Shortfall

The County of Union wishes to encourage residents to donate blood to agencies that provide life-saving aid for those in need. Agencies such as American Red Cross and New York Blood Center, both of whom have branches in Union County, are facing critical shortfalls as previously planned blood drives have been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Even as our families, first responders, and community leaders work together to slow the spread of COVID-19, we cannot forget the needs of those who are at risk from other life-threatening illnesses,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “Blood donations are urgently needed for these patients in hospitals across our region, and we urge anyone willing to make a donation to step forward and give blood if they are able.”

Residents who have recovered from COVID-19, in addition to residents unaffected by the virus who are already eligible, can now safely give blood. The American Red Cross holds several blood drives in Union County locations each month, while New York Blood Center has a permanent office in Scotch Plains. For more information and to seek an appointment, please go to https://www.redcross.org/local/new-jersey.html or https://nybloodcenter.org/donate-blood/donor-center-locations-march-2020/. Residents can also schedule an appointment with American Red Cross by phone at 1-800-RED CROSS, and with New York Blood Center at 1-800-933-2566.