In wake of the recent blood shortage, Senator David Carlucci, in collaboration with the New York Blood Center (NYBC) is hosting an emergency blood drive this Thursday, February 5^th from 3 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Congers Community Center, located at 6 Gilchrest Road, in Congers, NY.

Due to last week’s snow, and the cancellation of numerous blood drives across the state, NYBC estimates 3,000 scheduled donations have been lost – the largest single loss since Superstorm Sandy.

With nearly 2,000 donations needed each day in New York and New Jersey alone, it is crucial for donors to set aside an hour to donate. Those with O-negative blood type, or “universal donors,” are especially encouraged to donate, as their blood can be used in emergencies. About one in seven hospital admissions requires a blood transfusion, and with a limited shelf life, supplies must be continually replenished.

“With another storm pending on Sunday evening, the New York Blood Center is expecting their devastating shortage of blood donations to only get worse,” said Senator David Carlucci. “My office is hosting this blood drive to give everyone in our community the opportunity to pitch in, even if they aren’t regular donors. Giving blood is giving life, and we all have a chance to make a difference.”

Donors can either sign up on line at the below link, or call Senator Carlucci’s office at (845) 623-3627:

https://drm.nybloodcenter.org/PublicScheduler/GroupLanding.aspx?GroupCode=67219