SHREWSBURY — The Central Jersey Blood Center (CJBC) is sponsoring a “Boots vs. Badges vs. Bandages” blood drive, its first annual First Responders program, through Aug. 28.
As an incentive, CJBC will award one $500 donation to a police department, fire department or first aid squad in either Monmouth, Ocean or Middlesex counties, based on which one receives the most donor votes during the drive.
“First responders step up for us on a daily basis. Let’s support first responders, our heroes, who are always there in an emergency, by donating blood and voting for the emergency services unit of your choice,” said Director of Donor Relations Michael Leviton.
During the summer, blood donations are in short supply while the demand for blood goes up. According to CJBC, one person’s donation can save three lives.
“Every day hundreds of people in New Jersey need blood. Whether it’s because of automobile accidents, cancer patients in need of treatment or the multitude of other reasons individuals need blood, we need community members to roll up their sleeves and give these patients life, strength and hope,” said Alyssa Drown, marketing manager of CJBC.
Donors must be age 17 and up and can visit donor centers at: CJBC, 494 Sycamore Ave., Shrewsbury; Howell Plaza Shopping Center, 4068 Route 9 south, Howell; and Indian Head Shopping Plaza, 1256 Indian Head Road, Toms River.
Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. Mention “Summer of Heroes: First Responders” when you call and give the sponsor code SPON047605 to the front desk when checking in. To schedule an appointment, call 1-888-712-5663 or text “Brave” to 444999. For more information, visit www.cjbcblood.org or contact Alyssa Drown at 518-569-1841.