Start a New Holiday Tradition - Give Blood
News Release: December 10, 2007
Contact: Janice Osborne, Director-Communications and Marketing; American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley (610) 865-4400, ext. 262; pager (610) 508-4378

During this season of sharing and caring, the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley would like you to consider starting a new holiday tradition this year.

While most people are enjoying this joyous time of year with family, friends and colleagues, hundreds of individuals are fighting for their lives in area hospitals. For these people, and their loved ones, the holidays seem very different.

Make giving blood a new holiday tradition. Visit the American Red Cross blood drives on the following dates and locations in Carbon County:

• Thursday, Dec. 13, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Mauch Chunk Rod & Gun Club, Reservoir Road, Jim Thorpe;

• Thursday, Dec. 20, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Palmerton Boro Hall, 455 Delaware Avenue, Palmerton;

• Wednesday, Dec. 26, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Lehighton Recreation Center, 243 S. Eighth Street, Lehighton; and,

• Friday, Dec. 28, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Split Rock Resort, Lake Harmony.

As a special thank you for helping to saves lives this holiday, Red Cross is giving all presenting donors a free long-sleeve T-shirt and the opportunity to win free VISA gift cards.

Anyone who is at least 17 years old, who weighs at least 110 pounds, and is healthy may give blood or platelets.

Can’t make the scheduled blood collection dates in your area? Not a problem. Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) to schedule a donation appointment at your convenience.

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley serves more than 680,000 residents of Carbon, Lehigh and Northampton counties. Last year the Red Cross provided health and safety education training; Lifeline, a personal response service for seniors; and emergency relief to more than 23,000 Greater Lehigh Valley residents. For more information about the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley or volunteer opportunities, call (610) 865-4400 or visit www.redcrosslv.org.