Westroads Mall, Von Maur and Red Cross Honors Heroes

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Community offered opportunity to honor local heroes and learn how to prepare for emergencies

OMAHA, Neb. (July 24, 2008) –Tragedy struck Omaha on December 5th at Westroads Mall, but during the chaos many quiet heroes emerged.  From the brave and fast acting first responders and hospital staff to the strong willed survivors and resilient Von Maur employees. It is in their honor the American Red Cross, Westroads Mall and Von Maur will be hosting a blood drive at Westroads Mall on July 31st and August 1st.  All presenting donors will be receiving free first aid kits from the Heartland Chapter of the Red Cross.

The drive also features a community health and safety fair with emergency and preparedness information.  The Omaha Police Department, Omaha Fire Department and Heartland Chapter of the American Red Cross will be present to be honored for their support during the Westroads shooting.

Spanner the Fire Department dalmatian mascot will be at the event along with Police mascots McGruff and Johnny Justice. The Community Emergency Response Team, CERT, will also be present with the Police Department to talk about neighborhood safety. 

The Fire Department will have Flash, an interactive fire truck at the drive along with the Hazard House which teaches fire safety to children.  There will also be interactive activities for children to teach fire, kindergarten and personal safety.  The Heartland Chapter of the Red Cross will be present with safety information, coloring books for children and their swimming lessons mascot Longfellow the whale.  Their Emergency Response Vehicle will also be parked outside of the mall with a fire truck.

Without the generosity of blood donors Fred Wilson, a survivor of the Westroads Mall shooting, might not be here today. Wilson, lost three fourths of his blood supply due to a gunshot wound that severed an artery in his left arm. “We have to take care of each other,” Wilson said.  He added that, “We never know when something like this can happen, so it’s important to have people who are willing to donate blood.” 

Blood Drive Sponsored by Westroads Mall and Von Maur
Thursday, July 31st from 12:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Friday, August 1st from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Westroads Mall- Upper level Von Maur Court near Center Court
10000 California St, Omaha

How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.org to make an appointment or for more information. 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 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.

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 communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.                 
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