BAYONNE – In response to a critically low blood supply, a community blood drive will be held on Monday, April 21, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the City Hall Firehouse, 27th Street and Avenue C, city officials said.
Area blood banks are short of all blood types, so all types are welcome in this drive.
“The Blood Center of New Jersey reminds Bayonne residents that someone needs blood every two seconds,” said spokesman Joe Ryan.
Health officials are asking first-time donors to bring signed or photo identification and to know their Social Security numbers. Repeat donors must provide signed identification. Any adult who is physically able is welcome to donate blood.
In order to prevent donors from becoming weak after giving blood, drive organizers are asking them to eat a meal and drink water one hour before they donate. Health professionals will screen prospective donors before blood is drawn. There will be a free cholesterol check for all donors.
The drive is sponsored by the Bayonne Fire Department. – Joseph Passantino