Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) partnered with the American Red Cross to host a critical blood drive in Carmel, addressing the urgent need for blood donations. Since July 1, the Red Cross has experienced a significant decline in the national blood supply, which has dropped by more than 25%. Blood product distributions to hospitals are currently outpacing the number of donations, rapidly depleting the available supply.

The American Red Cross is tirelessly working with hospitals to meet the ongoing blood needs of patients, but they cannot do it alone. The Red Cross has announced an Emergency National Blood Shortage after its national blood inventory plummeted more than 25% in July. The collaboration with Slater and the local community aims to bolster blood donations and support life-saving efforts.

“Thank you to everyone who participated in the drive, and thank you to the American Red Cross for always highlighting the importance of community involvement in maintaining an adequate blood supply,” said Slater. “The collective effort of donors is essential in ensuring that patients receive the necessary care during medical emergencies and I look forward to teaming up with everyone again.”

“Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. This is why partnering with community organizations and community leaders like Assemblyman Slater to host blood drives across New York is so important. Each time someone hosts a blood drive, they help save hundreds of lives and help ensure patients can receive the lifesaving blood they urgently need. It’s a rewarding experience that truly makes a difference,” said Stephanie Dunn Ashely, Chapter CEO, American Red Cross Metro NY North Chapter.

Slater’s efforts helped ensure patients in need didn’t have to wait for life saving treatments and procedures, collecting 30 units of blood and were able to engage 4 first time donors. Every day, blood donors help patients of all ages: accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those battling cancer. In fact, every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Slater and the American Red Cross encourage those who can to Visit the American Red Cross Web site or call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) for more information or to schedule a donation appointment.