Red Cross: Constant Need for Blood in Massachusetts

The need for blood donations in Massachusetts really never slows down. It's a constant need, according to Jeff Hall, a spokesperson for the American Red Cross/Massachusetts.

Hall joined Townsquare Sunday this week to discuss the need for blood and how you can get involved.

"Blood is kind of like milk in your refrigerator," Hall said. "It doesn't last forever, even when we have it. It's a perishable product that we need constant replenishment."

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The Red Cross is grateful for all who donate, and is encouraging others join them. Donating blood starts with making an appointment, and you can do so by visiting redcrossblood.org. After entering your zip code, you will find an updated list of blood collection sites and available times for appointments in our area.

Any blood donor in January is eligible to win two tickets to the Super Bowl, February 12 in Arizona.

"People are not getting paid for their donations, so we like to offer an incentive," Hall said. "A lot of times a t-shirt is good enough for folks, but we are thankful for our sponsors that bring these great prizes that we can offer."

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Hall also had high praise for those who serve as Red Cross volunteers, providing all types of services in local communities – among them, responding to house fires.

"We must respond to 700 home fires a year in Massachusetts," Hall said. "Our volunteers provide comfort and compassion to people that have been forced out of their homes. It's probably one of the most important things we do in the Commonwealth."

The complete Townsquare Sunday interview with Red Cross spokesperson Jeff Hall can be heard here:

Townsquare Sunday is a public affairs program heard every Sunday at 6 a.m. and 11 a.m. on WBSM. The program highlights organizations and individuals seeking to make Greater New Bedford a better place to live and work.

If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.