American Red Cross

OMAHA, Neb. (December 18, 2008) - After all the shopping this holiday season, there is still one last gift to give - the gift of life. For the sixth year the American Red Cross, Children’s Hospital and KETV Channel 7 are partnering to raise awareness about blood donation and host the annual Holiday Blood Drive on December 30 at Millard North High School, 144th and Pacific Streets, from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

“The holiday season can be especially hard for families with sick children who may not be home to celebrate,” said Tricia Rubens, CEO of the local Red Cross Blood Services region. “We are honored to be working with Children’s Hospital and KETV Channel 7 in providing blood that helps to save lives of these children in need.”

The American Red Cross and Children’s Hospital are directly involved in the care of children when they are faced with a serious medical situation. Many times these kids need life-saving blood as part of their treatment. With the support of Channel 7, the Red Cross and Children’s Hospital are promoting the need for blood donations that are crucial for patients of all ages.

All presenting blood donors will receive a free t-shirt and be entered into a raffle for prizes donated by local vendors. The blood drive will also feature a canned food drive to benefit the American Red Cross Heartland Chapter’s food pantry. The pantry serves around 900 people monthly in the metro area and also experiences an extra need during the holidays. Donors are encouraged to bring non-perishable items to their donation appointments.

To learn more and make a blood donation appointment call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.org. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 years old with a signed Red Cross parental/guardian consent form where state permits, must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health.

“The need for blood never takes a vacation or holiday,” added Rubens. She noted that with holidays, travel plans and inclement weather, the local Red Cross experiences as much as a 5 percent drop in blood donations during the holiday season. “The need is constant but the gratification of donating is instant. It is a great way of giving back this holiday season.”

About the American Red Cross
Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross also helps ensure no patient goes without blood no matter where or when they need it. In addition to providing nearly half of the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.

About Children’s Hospital
Proudly serving children since 1948, Children’s Hospital is the only full-service, pediatric health care center in Nebraska.  Located in Omaha, it provides expertise in more than 30 pediatric specialty services to children and families across a five-state region and beyond.  The 144-bed, non-profit hospital houses the only dedicated pediatric emergency department in the region and offers 24-hour, in-house services by pediatric critical care specialists. For more information on Children’s Hospital, visit www.ChildrensOmaha.org.

About KETV- Newswatch 7
KETV-TV Newswatch 7 is proud to be a part of the holiday blood drive for the sixth year in a row. KETV is Omaha’s news leader and your station for more complete coverage and is owned and operated by Hearst-Argyle Television.