Blood Donors in High Demand

By: BoroPark24 staff

The New York Blood Center (NYBC) is giving back to blood donors this season, offering socks to donors at all 19 centers. 

The NYBC believes that the holiday season may threaten the already unstable blood supply and is urging the public to donate blood. 

According to the NYBC, New York's blood supply currently stands at a 1-3-day level - far less than the ideal level of 5-7-days.

School breaks, midwinter vacations, and traveling all contribute to a fall in blood donation. According to Patch, officials have reported that donors have been canceling appointments over the fear of getting sick.

"The winter months are always a difficult time to maintain our blood supply." New York Blood Center VP Andrea Cefarelli explained. "We are encouraging all eligible, and especially first-time donors, to come out and spread holiday cheer with the greatest gift of all, lifesaving blood donations. We'll even throw in a pair of socks to say thank you."

Now through January 4, the New York Blood Center will provide socks to donors to thank generous donors. 

Donating blood only takes about an hour, but remember that people are not eligible to donate if they're experiencing a cold, sore throat, respiratory infection, or flu-like symptoms.

To make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org.