Braunstein hosts Bayside blood drive

Assemblymember Ed Braunstein is hosting a blood drive next month. Photo courtesy of Braunstein

By Rachel Vick

Assemblyman Edward Braunstein’s ninth annual summer blood drive is slated for Aug. 5 at the Bay Terrace Shopping Center.

The event, hosted in partnership with the New York Blood Center, is part of ongoing efforts to combat a nationwide blood shortage.

“The New York Blood Center recently announced an urgent need for blood donations," Braunstein said. "Donating blood is safe and saves up to three lives. I hope that you will take the time to share this lifesaving gift.”

Donors can stop by from 1 to 7 p.m. Each will receive a free limited edition New York Mets t-shirt and be entered into a sweepstakes to win a 6-pack of Mets tickets.

NYBC declared a blood emergency in June as the amount of blood in storage dropped below a three day supply – less than their required minimum. This year’s drop in supply is worse than previous years, which typically experience a summer slump.

“As the region reopens, hospitalizations are going up and far outpacing the number of donations we are receiving,” said Andrea Cefarelli, the senior executive director of Recruitment and Marketing. “We must raise awareness and encourage lapsed donors who have not donated since before COVID-19 to return and to attract the next generation of blood donors to help us build a healthy blood supply.”

Social distancing requirements will be in place and all attendees are required to wear a mask or face covering. Anyone on quarantine restrictions or who tested positive for COVID-19 within two weeks of the event cannot donate, but are eligible if they are 14 days symptom-free.

Appointments are encouraged and can be made online at tinyurl.com/BraunsteinDrive2021 or by calling 718-357-3588.