Written by David Siders, Civic Engagement Coordinator, Downtown Main Library
The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on so many of the resources people rely on to survive. One such area that may come as a surprise to some is Cincinnati’s supply of blood donations. Due to stay-at-home orders and safety concerns, blood supplies across the nation have decreased dramatically. Unfortunately, the life-or-death situations that require these donations have not.
If you’re looking for ways to do good in your community during this difficult time, one easy thing to do is to give blood during the Library’s Summer Blood Drive Tour with Hoxworth Blood Center. Blood donation is a safe, sterile process and there is no risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus by donating blood. We need all eligible blood donors to schedule a donation, opens a new window at their earliest convenience.
Every day the Library is striving to find new ways to connect our communities to vital needs and resources. Our goal is to contribute to community health and well-being, especially during these challenging times of the pandemic.
“Hoxworth is the only steward of the blood supply here in the Cincinnati area—and as such, we rely on the partnerships of local organizations to help us collect much-needed blood products,” said Cara Nicolas, Associate Director of Public Relations at Hoxworth Blood Center. “Summer tends to be one of the hardest periods for blood banks across the country, as usage increases but donor turnout falls, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only created additional complications for organizations like Hoxworth. We are immensely grateful to the Public Library for hosting these truly lifesaving blood drives with us this summer.”
Interested donors make appointments on Hoxworth’s website, opens a new window, or call for telephone appointments; walk-ins are permitted when open time slots are available. As a thank you, donors receive two free vouchers for future tickets to a Cincinnati Reds baseball game that can be redeemed through the 2021 season.
Donations can be made at the following locations from 11:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 30—Green Township Branch
Monday, Aug. 3— Downtown Main Library
Friday, Aug, 7—Loveland Branch
Friday, Aug, 7— Symmes Township Branch
Make an appointment today by visiting www.hoxworth.org/groups/plch, or call 513-451-0910.
Add a comment to: Your Public Library helps our communities in new ways: Donate blood, save a life