June 14, 2010 is World Blood Donor Day – a time to celebrate those who donate blood to help save lives without expecting anything in return. It is also a day to raise awareness of the need for a safe and stable supply of blood products for patients in need of a transfusion.

This year, World Blood Donor Day is focused on nurturing a new generation of blood donors to help ensure a stable blood supply for decades to come. The slogan “New Blood for the World” was adopted to illustrate the important contribution that young people can make by donating blood.

“Up to 20 percent of all donations made through the American Red Cross come from high school and college blood drives,” said Greg Novinska, CEO of the local Red Cross Blood Services region. “In fact, blood donations made through the Red Cross by teenagers are growing while donations by older individuals are decreasing. Having a committed younger generation of blood donors is vital to meeting the transfusion needs of our aging population.”

How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit www.redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.