One big way to help victims of Hurricane Sandy...donate blood now. | Community Spirit

SHERRARD, Ill.--The American Red Cross has been hard at work preparing for, responding to, and helping our neighbors recover after the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy. But right now, they need your help.As of October 30th. Hurricane Sandy has forced the cancellation of approximately 300 American Red Cross blood drives in 14 states along the East Coast, resulting in a shortfall of nearly 9,000 units of blood and platelets thus far - and this will only increase as the week goes on. The American Red Cross is asking people who are eligible to give blood, especially in places not affected by the storm, to schedule a blood donation now.

To schedule a donation time or get more information about giving blood, people can visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). To give blood, you must be at least 17 years of age, meet weight and height requirements and be in general good health. Donors should bring their Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID with them. Some states allow 16-year-olds to give with parental consent.

Blood Donors can donate this week.

Mercer County

Nov. 9 from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Sherrard High School, 4701 176th in Sherrard, Ill.

Submitted Press Release