Blood donors rolled up their sleeves in honor of those who lost their lives 19 years ago in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, during the Jersey City Police and Fire 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive on September 11 at Canopy by Hilton in Jersey City.
Members of the Jersey City Police and Fire Departments, community members, as well as friends and family of those lost on September 11, donated blood to mark the occasion while giving back to the community. The drive, which was sponsored by Suburban Propane, collected 145 units of blood.
Among the blood donors was Deputy Chief William McClintock with the Jersey City Department of Public Safety Division of Fire. On the day of the attacks, Jersey City first responders were along the waterfront to help receive the thousands who evacuated lower Manhattan by boat. Jersey City also served as a staging area for many 9/11 first responders and recovery teams.
Father and son Henry and Nick, who also happen to be Jersey City firefighters wanted to donate blood together. They were joined by Jersey City police officers, workers from area businesses and community members who wanted to honor those who died by donating blood to help others live.
All presenting donors received a Red Cross first aid kit, courtesy of Suburban Propane, a proud national sponsor of the American Red Cross.
Blood Donation during COVID-19
Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arrival and are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control public guidance. To schedule an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
Donors can save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPass®. With RapidPass®, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass®, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
In most states, individuals who are 17 years of age (age 16 in New Jersey with parental consent), 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.
