County Teams Up with American Red Cross to Celebrate Blood Donor Month

Since 1970, National Blood Donor Month has been celebrated in January in an effort to educate Americans about the importance of regular blood and platelet donations and the impact they can have on patients in need.

As part of the National Blood Donor Month Celebration, Montgomery County partnered with the American Red Cross to host two blood drives on January 18 and 19, which resulted in the collection of more than 60 units of blood.

“The County of Montgomery hosts four blood drives per year in support of the American Red Cross,” said Anthony Tornetta, Regional Communications Manager for the American Red Cross Penn-Jersey Blood Services Region. “While we thank those who have donated during National Blood Donor Month, we also are very grateful to all blood donors who make the choice to roll up their sleeves and donate throughout the year.”

Montgomery County has hosted more that more than 40 blood drives since 2008, helping the American Red Cross collect approximately 1,325 units of blood, while providing a second chance for almost 4,000 hospital patients across the region.

“Every donation makes a difference,” said Tammy Tarloski, of the Montgomery County Health Department. “The winter is a very important time of year to give blood, and along with the American Red Cross, we know that we can help save lives by doing so. We encourage all Montgomery County residents to call the Red Cross to schedule a blood donation appointment today.”

January is a time when blood and platelet donations can drop as people are unable to make or keep donation appointments because of inclement weather and seasonal colds and flu. The Red Cross encourages all donors to make a New Year’s resolution to give blood regularly to help ensure a stable supply.

Each day, approximately 44,000 units of blood are needed for patients in the United States. In fact, approximately every two seconds, someone in this country needs blood. All eligible donors are encouraged to become everyday supporters of the Red Cross and their communities by giving blood or platelets this winter. 

To learn more, or to schedule a blood donation appointment with the American Red Cross, please call

1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit http://www.redcrossblood.org/. 

Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in PA), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.  Donors must bring their Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when they come to donate. 

To get breaking news and updates, follow the American Red Cross Penn-Jersey Blood Services Region on twitter @ARCPennJersey.