Assemblyman Joseph M. Giglio (R,C,I-Gowanda) today announced that he will be hosting a blood drive with the American Red Cross. The blood drive will be held on Thursday, August 1, 2013, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Wellsville American Legion Post 702, located at 23 Jefferson Street in Wellsville.

“I encourage those who have never donated blood to stop by,” said Giglio. “The Red Cross is always in need of donations, especially during the summer season. You never know when a neighbor or someone you work or live with may need assistance. This is a great way to give back to people in our community, and you can walk away with a great feeling knowing that you have helped save a life.”

According to the American Red Cross, individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in New York State), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. The Red Cross issued an emergency call for blood donations on July 9 after seeing about 50,000 fewer blood and platelet donations than expected in June. Donations have increased by about 15 percent since the emergency call for donors was issued, but the middle and end of July mark only the halfway point to the challenging summer months.

To schedule an appointment or for more information, please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or contact the local Red Cross office in Wellsville at 585-593-1531.

WHO: Assemblyman Joseph M. Giglio (R,C,I-Gowanda) American Red Cross

WHAT: Blood drive

WHEN: Thursday, August 1, 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

WHERE: Wellsville American Legion Post 702 - 23 Jefferson Street - Wellsville

***OPEN TO THE PUBLIC***