Donors encouraged to make appointments now

FARMINGTON >> The American Red Cross is urging those who have never given blood before, and those who haven’t given recently, to “make an appointment to give blood or platelets now and help sustain a sufficient community blood supply this summer,” according to a release.

“While the need for blood is constant during the summer months, the Red Cross experiences a drastic decline in new donors. Nationwide, about 32 percent fewer new blood donors, and almost 47 percent fewer in Connecticut, came out to give last summer than during the rest of the year,” the release said. “Additionally, many schools where blood drives are held – and where new donors give – are not in session, and current donors often delay giving due to summer vacation plans.”

The Red Cross offers these tips for “an enjoyable donation experience”:

1. As much as possible, eat iron-rich foods leading up to your donation

2. Hydrate – drink an extra 16 ounces of liquid before and after the donation

3. Have a healthful meal before the donation

4. Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be raised above the elbow

5. Complete a RapidPass on the day of donation, prior to arriving, to save time and remember to bring a picture ID, blood donor card or two other forms of identification

The agency also notes: “While about 38 percent of the population is eligible to give blood, less than 10 percent of those eligible actually do. The blood donation process takes about an hour with the actual donation only taking about 10 minutes. “

Appointments can be scheduled by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood. org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

The following is a list of upcoming blood donation opportunities in the area.

Cornwall: June 8, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., United Church of Christ Congregational, 8 Bolton Hill Road

Harwinton: June 3, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., Harwinton Town Hall, 100 Bentley Drive

New Milford: June 3, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., St John’s Church, 7 Whittlesey Avenue

North Canaan: June 12, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Geer Nursing & Rehab, 99 South Canaan Rd Rte 7 South

Watertown: June 6, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Valenti Audi, 600 Straits Turnpike

Winsted: June 12, 1:45 p.m. - 6:45 p.m., Winsted Area Ambulance Association, 655 Main Street

Woodbury: June 10, 7:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m., Woodbury Senior Center, 265 Main Street