Blood Drive Scheduled In Wolf Point
The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive in Wolf Point on Thursday, Aug. 19. The drive will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gospel Fellowship Church, 602 U.S. 2 East.
For an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org, sponsor code wolf point, or call 1-800733-2767.
Much of the west is experiencing a destructive wildfire season this year. The American Red Cross needs volunteers to help on the ground and blood donors to roll up a sleeve to maintain a stable blood supply in the face of emergencies.
“This year’s wildfire season is already very active and dangerous because of the hot temperatures and dry conditions in our area,” said Ted Koenig, regional disaster officer for the Red Cross of Idaho and Montana. “After several years of record-breaking wildfires, the Red Cross is already responding in dozens of communities, and it’s critical to have a trained, ready volunteer workforce to make sure we can provide relief at a moment’s notice.”
Wildfires, record-breaking heat and a busy hurricane season can also impact the nation’s blood supply. On top of the toll extreme weather events take on the lives of millions, disasters can cause blood drive closures or prevent donors from being able to give safely.
To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), 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 must meet certain height and weight requirements.
