ITHACA, NY (CortacaToday) – On Saturday, September 14th, from 10am to 2pm, the Ithaca Tompkins International Airport, in collaboration with the Departments of Emergency Response and Whole Health, will host a community blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross. The event will be held at the Whole Health building, located at 55 Brown Road.

This year’s blood drive is part of the 2024 Airport Day and Preparedness Expo, which is supported by County employees.

“Tompkins County, as an organization, is committed to strengthening our community and helping meet hospital and patient needs through blood donations,” said Geoff Dunn, Community Preparedness Coordinator for the Department of Emergency Response. “This blood drive is our way of giving staff, colleagues, and neighbors an opportunity to help save lives.”

The Red Cross reports that someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds, necessitating a constant replenishment of blood products. This summer, blood donations were impacted by record heat and challenging weather conditions nationwide.

“We urge community members to donate blood and help ensure that patients in local hospitals have a supply of blood ready and waiting before an emergency arises,” added Amy Bobbette, Account Manager with the American Red Cross. “There’s no better feeling than knowing that your blood donation may give someone a second chance at life.”

To schedule an appointment to donate, call 1-800-733-2767 or sign up online at redcrossblood.org using the sponsor code “ithacacares” and selecting the date and location.

The Red Cross is seeking donors of all blood types, with a particular need for types O-, A-, and B-. Donors who give blood before September 15th will receive an exclusive Red Cross raglan shirt, while supplies last!