American Red Cross Blood Drive

Fleet Feet Sports and American Red Cross Hold Commemorative Blood Drive to Mark One-Year Anniversary of Boston Marathon Bombings

Fleet Feet Sports and the American Red Cross will hold a special blood drive in commemoration of the Boston Marathon Bombings on Tuesday, April 15, 2014 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Fleet Feet Sports at The Armory on 155 Culver Road in Rochester, N.Y. As we remember the Boston Marathon Bombings, the Red Cross invites the community to donate blood to help hospital patients in need, as a healing moment and a special way to mark this solemn occasion.

As a part of the event, an America 4 Boston Prayer Canvas will be displayed at the blood drive. Presenting blood donors and community members are invited to write or paint a message of hope and unity in the colors red, white and blue on the canvas. The canvas will be joined with others from around the country for a traveling exhibit. On April 20, many of the completed canvases (19,000 square feet) will be presented to the City of Boston, live at Fenway Park, with the Boston Red Sox.  For more information on this project, please visit prayercanvasusa.com.

 “We depend on generous volunteer blood donors to provide lifesaving blood for those in need--each and every day--not only during times of national disaster. Last April the American Red Cross sent 600 blood products to Boston area hospitals in response to the tragedy,” said Donna M. Morrissey, Director of Communications, American Red Cross Blood Services, Field Marketing. “Having a sufficient blood supply is part of preparedness. It’s the blood on the shelves today that help save lives tomorrow.”

"Last year's horrific bombings not only affected Rochester running community, but that of the nation as well,” said Vice President and CFO, Fleet Feet Sport and Yellow Jacket Racing Ellen Brenner. “Being able to commemorate the victims through this blood drive gives everyone a chance to give of themselves to help others."

Local blood donors are needed all year round to ensure the blood supply stays strong. Your blood and platelet donations can help save the life of a real person in our community. Blood is an essential component for patient care in area hospitals, and the only source of blood is a healthy, volunteer blood donor.

This spring, the Red Cross encourages eligible blood and platelet donors to make a difference by rolling up a sleeve to donate blood. Help give hospital patients a chance to enjoy more seasons with friends and family.  Walk-ins are always welcome, but donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment in advance by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visiting redcrossblood.org.

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in New York State), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossBloodNY.