Politics & Government
Town Hosts Fall Blood Drive, Supply at Critical Levels
New York Blood Center announced last Friday its supply levels are at critical levels, seeking donations.
Smithtown residents are being asked to consider donating blood at the towns' blood drive as supplies in New York State hit critical levels.
The Town of Smithtown is hosting its annual Fall Blood Drive on Wednesday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Merrywood Cottage of the Smithtown Landing Country Club. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome.
Those with questions or concerns about the event or donating should call 631-360-7626.
The town's Fall Blood Drive hits at a crucial time when the New York Blood Center has announced blood supply levels are critically low, Newsday reports.
Currently, the New York Blood Center has about 2,000 units of blood on any given day, far less than the 10,000 units needed to handle the average load of emergencies. The blood center's supply of type O-negative blood - considered the universal donor- has fallen to less than 100 units on any given day.
Blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. People older than 75 may donate with a doctor's note.The entire process takes about an hour.
Read more on Newsday [subscription required] about the potential impact of critically low blood supply.
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