The American Red Cross needs your help | Community Spirit

KEWANEE, Ill.--Every day, patients across the country rely on blood and platelets donated through the American Red Cross. While the need is ongoing, the supply isn’t — especially around the holidays, when regular donors travel and spend time with family and friends and may forget to schedule an appointment.

Blood and platelet donations help save the lives of people like Amy Jones, who was diagnosed with leukemia at 10 years old. Like many cancer patients, Jones received several transfusions.

The only way to provide lifesaving blood and platelets for patients in need is through the generosity of donors. Donors can help the Red Cross maintain a stable blood supply this holiday season by making an appointment to donate at redcrossblood.org or 1-800-RED CROSS.

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. 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.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Henry County

Dec. 6 from 2-6 p.m. at American Legion, 509 N. School St. in Atkinson, Ill.

Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Wethersfield High School Key Club, 439 Willard St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Dec. 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Kewanee Armory, 111 N. East St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Dec. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kewanee High School, 1211 E. Third St. in Kewanee, Ill.

Submitted Press Release