Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C-Ballston) teamed up with the American Red Cross to host a summer blood drive on Monday, Aug. 2. According to the Red Cross, every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. Being able to donate blood is critical in saving the lives of those in need. Walsh and the Red Cross are proud to announce that their collection goal was surpassed, and 68 units of blood were donated at yesterday’s blood drive.

“With school out and vacations planned, summer is a historically difficult time to collect blood nationwide and in the after-math of COVID-19 many hospitals have seen a roughly 15% increase in blood transfusions required for many surgeries or procedures that were postponed during the pandemic,” said Walsh. “Yesterday, 69 of our neighbors stepped up to the call and made the choice to take time out of their busy schedules to donate blood for those who need it. After years of hesitation, I was also encouraged to give blood for the first time ever!”

“Thank you to the American Red Cross and representatives from the Eastern New York Region for partnering with me to host this event in our community!”