West Babylon FD Celebrate 25 Years Of Hosting Blood Drives

WEST BABYLON, NY— The New York Blood Center and the West Babylon Fire Department are celebrating a 25-year partnership of hosting blood drives with one on Monday, April 14, from 1:45 to 7:45 p.m. at the fire department.

Together, the organizations have hosted 51 blood drives over the last 25 years, which have collected a total of 3,937 blood donations.

"The West Babylon Fire Department has had a rich history of serving the Long Island community for 80 years. As part of our service to the community, we are proud to have partnered with New York Blood Center for the past 25 years," said Steve Kamalic, Chief of the Department, West Babylon Fire Department. "This has allowed the West Babylon Fire Department to assist in NYBC’s lifesaving mission. We heard the call and answered the alarm."

According to NYBC, the donated blood supply runs low in spring, as donations decline due to families traveling for school breaks, enjoying warmer weather and focusing on end-of-school-year activities. This seasonal drop can create challenges for hospitals and patients who rely on volunteer donors to receive life-saving blood donations.

NYBC and the West Babylon Fire Department are encouraging the community to donate blood this season. One blood donation can save up to three lives.

"This Monday, April 14, we will be hosting yet another blood drive. After your donation, sit with us and enjoy a hot meal and some snacks," Kamalic said. "We look forward to supporting New York Blood Center for the next 100 years."

The NYBC says blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. It takes about an hour to donate, and a single donation can save multiple lives.

Roughly one in seven hospital admissions require a blood transfusion, including cancer patients, accident, burn, or trauma victims, newborn babies and their mothers, transplant recipients, surgery patients and chronically transfused patients suffering from sickle cell disease or thalassemia.

The Food and Drug Administration recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To check current eligibility guidelines, click here or call 800-688-0900.

To make an appointment, click here or call 800-933-2566. Can’t donate blood? You can still make a lifesaving impact by supporting NYBC’s mission through financial contributions or volunteering your time. Click here to learn more.