Red Cross Intensifies Efforts To Maintain Stable Blood Supplies This Winter; Doubles December Blood Drive Schedule

SUMMIT / MADISON (November 27, 2007) With busy holiday schedules and blustery cold weather, winter has historically proven to be one of the most challenging times of the year to maintain area blood supplies.

The local American Red Cross Colonial Crossroads Chapter is actively addressing the situation by doubling its standard December blood drive calendar to include four drives at various times and locations around the area. The Colonial Crossroads Chapter enlisted the support of Summit's Jewish Community Center, the Madison High School Red Cross Club and the Madison Volunteer Ambulance Corps to host supplementary December drives. The chapter also is offering a special T-shirt give-away for individuals who donate at the Summit or Madison chapter office on Dec. 17 and Dec. 18, respectively.

"Winter is one of the most challenging times of the year to maintain blood supplies at stable levels. Donors are hard to recruit and needs soar," said Christy Hodde, executive director of the Colonial Crossroad Chapter. "Donating is simple, safe, life-saving, and selfless. We hope that by providing additional opportunities, area residents will join us this holiday season in giving the gift of life."

American Red Cross blood drives hosted by the local Colonial Crossroads Chapter can be found on the Blood page by clicking here. Individuals do not need to know their blood type to donate and walk-ins are welcome. To eliminate waiting time, donors may make an appointment.

The Colonial Crossroads Chapter has served the residents of Berkeley Heights, Chatham Borough, Chatham Township, East Hanover, Florham Park, Long Hill Township, Madison, New Providence, Springfield and Summit since 1917. Local Red Cross programs and services include disaster preparedness education and response services; life-saving skill training such as CPR, First Aid, and water safety; armed forces emergency services, transportation and blood services.

To find out more about the local American Red Cross Colonial Crossroads Chapter, how you can donate your expertise, time, money or blood; or to help your family, business, or community prepare for emergencies, visit www.ccnjredcross.org.