State Sen. Christopher “Kip” Bateman and Assembly Republican members Jack Ciattarelli and Donna Simon, all from the 16th legislative district in Somerset, Hunterdon, Mercer and Middlesex.
State Sen. Christopher “Kip” Bateman and Assembly Republican members Jack Ciattarelli and Donna Simon, all from the 16th legislative district in Somerset, Hunterdon, Mercer and Middlesex counties, are urging residents to give the gift of life by donating blood at the bi-annual South Brunswick Blood Drive Saturday.
The drive will take place Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Woodlot Park on New Road in South Brunswick.
Mr. Ciattarelli and Ms. Simon will be rolling up their sleeves to donate, but since Mr. Bateman donated two weeks ago, he is ineligible for Saturday’s blood drive. Donors must wait at least eight weeks between donations.
”We would like to encourage people of all ages to make blood donations a way of life,” said Mr. Bateman, who has donated more than 25 gallons of blood during his lifetime. “It is one of the most worthwhile things you can do for others. Donating an hour of your time and a pint of your blood can literally mean the difference between life and death for someone in need.”
Noting that only about 2.5 percent of eligible New Jersey residents donate blood, which is about half the national average, Mr. Ciattarelli said, “Ensuring New Jersey’s blood banks and hospitals have a viable, regularly replenished supply of blood on hand at all times is the responsibility of each eligible individual. No one knows when they or a family member will need life-saving blood. Giving blood is not only the ‘Gift of Life,’ it’s also one of the simplest, safest and most effective ways to support your community.”
Mr. Ciattarelli added that contrary to popular belief, blood isn’t only needed following a catastrophic event. It’s needed every day to treat premature babies, trauma victims and cancer patients.
”Not only is donating blood a worthwhile activity, it’s a privilege,” said Ms. Simon. “What a better way to give to others in your community. We encourage more people to donate. We will be at Woodlot Park on Saturday. We hope to see you there.”
Blood donors must be at least 17 years of age, 16 with parental consent, and weigh at least 120 pounds.
The South Brunswick Community Blood Drive committee sponsors two main blood drives – in the fall and spring, and two satellite drives in the summer and winter at B’Nai Tikvah Center on Finnegan’s Lane.
For more information about Saturday’s event, please call 732-297-7316 or email [email protected]