Give Thanks for Good Health by Donating Blood This Thanksgiving.

Locally, you may give blood on Wednesday, Nov. 30, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Albany Community Center located on Spring Street in Albany.

In 2010, U.S. farmers raised more than 242 million turkeys. That’s a lot of turkeys! Anyone who enjoyed one of these birds on Thanksgiving is grateful they were available.

But did you know that only 111 million people are eligible to donate blood? That’s just over 37 percent of the U.S. population. Of those, only about three percent actually donate blood. Imagine what would happen if there wasn’t enough blood for hospital patients in need

Don’t be a turkey! This Thanksgiving, give thanks for good health by giving blood. Each blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives.

All presenting blood donors receive a holiday inspired long-sleeved shirt.

How to Donate Blood:

Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org for more information or to make an appointment. All blood types are needed to ensure the Red Cross maintains an adequate blood supply. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be in general good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old (16 with completed Parental Consent Form). New height and weight restrictions apply to donors 18 and younger.