For the 20th anniversary of the attack on the World Trade Center, the New York Blood Center (NYBC) is hosting a monthlong series of blood drives.
The NYBC said that on 9/11, New Yorkers showed up covered in dust to pop-up donation centers across the city to donate blood. Now, the NYBC wants to hold needed blood drives in remembrance to that time.
“It’s been 20 years since the twin towers fell and New York will never forget what happened that day or the lives we lost. We are so grateful to the community organizations who have stepped up for the 20th anniversary — the donations made today will surely save lives tomorrow,” said Andrea Cefarelli, senior executive director at NYBC.
The NYBC said this series comes at an important time, as the blood supply in New York has dropped in recent weeks.
“The region is currently experiencing a shortage and we need more New Yorkers to show up for each other and visit a blood drive near them,” Cefarelli said.
Blood drives will be held Tuesday, Sept. 14, from noon to 6 p.m. at 71-01 Parsons Blvd. in Flushing; on Wednesday, Sept. 15, from noon to 6 p.m. at 168-02 91st Ave. in Jamaica; and on Friday, Sept. 17, from noon to 6 p.m. at the Shops at Atlas Park in Glendale.
Peter DeLucia Jr., the general manager of the Shops at Atlas Park, said he is proud to be involved in the series to remember the lives lost in 9/11.
“We are proud to support the New York Blood Center, New York State Senator Addabbo and Councilman Holden and their efforts to remember and honor the 20th anniversary of Sept. 11,” DeLucia said. “With over 125 events hosted, Atlas Park and its shoppers have a long track record of supporting the community through its blood drives and we look forward to continuing to open our doors to make an impact on the community we serve.”
The NYBC said donating blood is safe and only takes an hour. Blood centers won’t accept donations if you are experiencing a cold, sore throat, respiratory infection or flu-like symptoms.
Holden said he is proud to co-sponsor this blood drive series with Addabbo.
“Donating blood is always important since blood can’t be synthesized and there’s no substitute for it,” Holden said. “But as we reflect on the anniversary of 9/11, it has a special meaning. What better way to honor the first responders who rushed toward the danger that morning than to give blood and save lives ourselves? You may very well save the life of an injured first responder.”
Donors can schedule appointments by calling 800-933-2566 or visiting nybc.org.
This story was updated Sept. 13 at 2:44 p.m.
