Give Blood: It's a Heartwarming Experience
News Release: January 25, 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

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley encourages Carbon County residents to give blood at one of its three blood drives in February. As an incentive, all presenting donors in the month of February 2008 will automatically be entered to have one month’s heating bill paid (up to $500 maximum).

Blood will be collected on the following days and locations:

• Friday, Feb. 15, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Palmerton Boro Hall, 455 Delaware Avenue, Palmerton;

• Monday, Feb. 25, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Jim Thorpe Memorial Hall, West 10th Street, Jim Thorpe; and,

• Friday, Feb. 29, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Blue Mountain Health System, Sixth & Iron streets, Lehighton.

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 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.