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The American Red Cross Holds Blood Drive for the Upcoming Holidays

The Red Cross blood drive was a huge success today with over 30 people signed up to give blood and help. The American Red Cross collected blood today to help out with the shortage of blood they experience during the holiday season.

Team supervisor, Nancy Topel said the Red Cross needs more blood during holidays due to an increase in accidents and a decrease in donations.

“Around the holiday season we have a shortage. Unfortunately there’s more need because of people traveling and accidents happening and there’s a need for blood. Because people are traveling they’re also on vacation and they’re not donating as often. So we have a need during the holidays and year round…that happens too,” Topel said.

Anyone over the age of 16 can donate blood. All blood types are encouraged.

There will be multiple blood drives for the rest of the year here in Alpena. For more information, or to find a blood drive near you, log on to www.redcross.org.