Congresswoman Organizes Town Hall Event to Help Address Severe Blood Shortage in Hudson Valley

 
FISHKILL - U.S. Rep. Sue Kelly hosted her annual blood drive on August 9 at Fishkill Town Hall to talk with constituents and help increase area blood supplies during the busy summer months.
 
Kelly worked with the American Red Cross to organize the blood drive at a time when the Hudson Valley is facing one of its most severe blood shortages ever. 

“We depend upon our hospitals to make sick patients healthy again. Our hospitals depend upon us for the blood they need to make that happen,” said Kelly. “Donating blood is such a simple act, but by doing so you make such a powerful difference.” 
 
Kelly was pleased with the turnout at the community event, which included town employees, other local workers, and residents of Dutchess County.
 
“We need to continue raising awareness about the blood shortage here in the Hudson Valley,” said Kelly. “There are plenty of blood drives in Dutchess County and throughout the Hudson Valley this summer. If you couldn’t be here today, please look for other local opportunities to donate blood.”
 
A blood transfusion is needed every two seconds in the United States and one in three people need donated blood in their lifetime, according to the American Red Cross.

 

However, only 5 percent of the population eligible to donate blood actually does so.
 
Each individual blood donation can save the lives of up to three people.
 
The American Red Cross is actively seeking new sponsors and donors. To sponsor a blood drive, call 845-471-0202, ext. 314. To find out where you can donate blood, visit www.givelife.org or call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE.

 

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