Wednesday June 25, the Knights of Columbus and the Wayne Pike Chapter of the American Red Cross will join together to collect at least 50 pints of lifesaving blood at the Queen of Peace Church, 314 Chestnut St. in Hawley. All blood types are needed and every eligible person is encouraged to donate between 1 to 6 pm.

“Due to the rising gas prices, our blood donations have been below average and we really need people to come out and give the gift of life,” said Ashley Stames, Blood Services Manager for the Wayne Pike Chapter of the American Red Cross. “Every two seconds someone in the United States requires blood and this year alone, as many as five million patients will require blood transfusions.”

Giving blood is a safe process, is easy, and takes very little time. Although about 37 percent of the people in America are eligible to donate blood, only five percent do. Donations are vitally needed; please act now by giving the gift of life. Anyone at least 16 years of age (with a signed parental consent form which can be obtained from the nurse supervisor at the blood drive), weighing 110 pounds or more, and feeling in good health may be eligible to donate blood. Please call your American Red Cross at 1-800 GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or log onto www.givelife.org and make an appointment today.