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Blood Drive to Combat Northeast Shortage

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. 26/blood-drive-to-combat-northeast-shortage.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, January 26th 2026 at 10:55 GMT by Patch
      Locale: UNITED STATES

NEW CITY, NY - January 26, 2026 - Amidst a persistent and concerning blood shortage impacting hospitals across the Northeast, Assembly Member Zellmer Zebrowski is taking proactive steps to bolster the region's blood supply by hosting a community blood drive. The initiative, a partnership with the New York Blood Center, aims to encourage eligible residents to donate and help meet the urgent demand.

A Time of Urgent Need

The announcement comes during National Blood Donor Month, a designated period to highlight the critical importance of blood donations. Hospitals across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania - all served by the New York Blood Center - are facing dwindling reserves, impacting patients requiring transfusions for surgeries, accident victims, individuals battling cancer, and those managing chronic illnesses. While the reasons for the ongoing shortage are multifaceted, including reduced donor turnout in recent years and the effects of lingering pandemic-related anxieties, the need for a renewed commitment to donation has become increasingly apparent.

"National Blood Donor Month is a crucial time to recognize the vital need for blood donations," Assembly Member Zebrowski emphasized. "I urge all eligible residents to come out and donate. Every donation can make a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most."

Blood Drive Details & Accessibility

The community blood drive is scheduled for Saturday, February 11, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. It will be held at the Rockland Elks Lodge, located at 210 N Main St, New City, NY 10956. The Elks Lodge provides a convenient and accessible location for community members to participate.

To incentivize participation and express gratitude for donors' generosity, all individuals who donate blood at the drive will receive a gift card. The New York Blood Center is also streamlining the donation process through online scheduling. Residents can secure their appointment by visiting [ https://www.nybloodcenter.org/ ] or by calling 800-983-6340. Pre-scheduling is strongly encouraged to manage flow and ensure a smooth and efficient donation experience.

The Scope of the New York Blood Center's Impact

The New York Blood Center plays a vital role in the healthcare landscape of the Northeast, providing blood products for over 200 hospitals across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. The sheer scale of their operation underscores the constant and substantial demand for blood, further emphasizing the necessity of community involvement and ongoing donation efforts. The center's logistical complexities highlight the fragility of the blood supply chain and the importance of consistent donor participation.

Eligibility & Safe Donation Practices

Donating blood is a remarkably safe and straightforward procedure, yet potential donors often have questions regarding eligibility. The New York Blood Center website ([ https://www.nybloodcenter.org/ ]) provides comprehensive details on eligibility requirements, addressing common concerns and outlining the steps involved in the donation process. Potential donors are encouraged to review these guidelines beforehand to ensure they meet the necessary criteria and are prepared for their visit.

Beyond the Blood Drive: A Call to Action

Assembly Member Zebrowski's blood drive represents a critical step in addressing the regional blood shortage. However, the need extends beyond a single event. The New York Blood Center encourages individuals to consider regular blood donation as a vital contribution to community health and well-being. By proactively supporting blood donation initiatives and understanding the critical role blood products play in saving lives, residents can collectively contribute to a more secure and resilient healthcare system. The ongoing shortage serves as a reminder that a single donation can truly be life-saving.