Red Cross Offers Special Incentive for Blood Donors; Just in Time for Back To School

Red Cross Offers Special Incentive for Blood Donors; Just in Time for Back To School

News Release: August 15, 2008
Contact: Janice Osborne, Director-Communications and Marketing; American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley (610) 865-4400, ext. 262; pager (610) 508-4378

Need an extra incentive to donate blood? How does a $100 VISA gift card for back-to-school shopping sound?

All presenting donors are eligible to win. One card will be won each day through September 7.

Stop by one of four blood drives being held by the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley in Carbon County in August and September to win. Here are the dates and locations:

Wednesday, Aug. 20, from 1 - 6 p.m., at Jim Thorpe Memorial Hall, West 10th Street, Jim Thorpe. Canteen sponsor: Jim Thorpe Market;
Friday, Aug. 22, from 1 - 6 p.m., at the Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Company, 2440 Fairyland Road, Lehighton. Canteen sponsor: Mallard Markets;

Thursday, Aug. 28, from 1 - 6 p.m., at the Bowmanstown Rod & Gun Club, 525 Club Road, Palmerton. Canteen sponsor: The Camouflage Kitchen at the Bowmanstown Rod & Gun Club; and

Tuesday, Sept. 2, from 1 - 6 p.m., at the Nesquehoning Recreation Center, 353 West Railroad Street, Nesquehoning.

Anyone who is at least 17 years old, who weighs at least 110 pounds, and is healthy may give blood or platelets. With the submission of a signed parental consent form, 16-year-olds who weigh at least 110 pounds and are in good health also can donate blood. Parental consent forms are available from nurse supervisors at Red Cross drives.

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 690,000 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.