Red Cross organizes blood drives on campus for National Preparedness Month

In conjunction with National Preparedness Month, the American Red Cross is kicking off September with a series of blood drives around campus and the Bloomington area.

National Preparedness Month, sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security, encourages Americans to prepare themselves in case of a national emergency such as a terrorist attack or a widespread national disaster, according to a press release.

“By giving blood through the American Red Cross, eligible donors can ensure blood is ready and available when any disaster strikes,” according to a press release. “It’s the blood on the shelf when a disaster or emergency strikes that saves the day.”

The Red Cross will be accepting donations from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at Ballantine Hall. Donation sites will be available both on- and off-campus until Sept. 15. For a complete list of sites, visit redcrossblood.org/rivervalley.

Until Wednesday, the Red Cross will also be presenting five donors with prize packages worth $200 as part of its Labor Day Holiday Promotion.

Individuals must weigh at least 110 pounds in order to donate and be free of communicable illness, including symptoms of the flu and the common cold. Other restrictions may apply for donors ages 18 and younger.

To make an appointment or for more information, visit redcrossblood.org.

—Kirsten Clark