Superstorm Sandy forced the cancellation of several American Red Cross blood drives which has resulted in a shortfall of more than 7,000 blood donations in the Northeast.

The Red Cross says that they expect more cancellations and additional losses of blood donations while areas deal with the aftermath of the storm.  They are urging that residents donate blood or platelets as soon as they are able.

“Sandy has affected blood collections along the East Coast,” stated Donna M. Morrissey, Director of Communications of the American Red Cross – Northeast Division.  “Now that our operations are up and running again, we encourage the community to come forward and help replenish the blood supply.”

The Red Cross says that all blood types are needed.

Southern Tier residents can donate blood at the following drives:

Wednesday 10/31/2012
*Sams Club Vestal, 2441 Vestal Pkwy, East Vestal, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Thursday 11/01/2012
*UHS Binghamton General Hospital, 10-42 Mitchell Ave, Binghamton, 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
*Johnson City Blood Donation Center, 365 Harry L Dr, Johnson City, 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Friday 11/02/2012
*UHS Wilson Medical Center, 33-57 Harrison Street, Johnson City, 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
*Johnson City Blood Donation Center, 365 Harry L Dr, Johnson City, 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Saturday 11/03/12
*Johnson City Blood Donation Center, 365 Harry L Dr, Johnson City, 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Please call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment to donate or for more information.

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