The Red Cross of Southwestern New York will hold several blood drives in October.
The Red Cross advises donors to make an appointment if possible. Also, donors should bring a list of medications they are taking and over-the-counter medications that may be in their system. A donor card, driver's license or other form of photo identification is also required. Two forms of identification without a photo can also be accepted.
Before donating, be sure to drink plenty of fluids during throughout the day and eat. This will help blood flow through the donation process. Donors should maintain a healthy level of iron in their diet before donating. If possible, include iron-rich foods in their diet. This could include meats, eggs, seafood, green vegetables and many others. Dress to donate by wearing something comfortable that can have the sleeves rolled up above the elbow.
To make an appointment to donate, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS.
Upcoming blood drives:
Tuesday - Portland Fire Department, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wednesday - Clymer Central School, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wednesday - SUNY Fredonia Williams Center. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Thursday - Chautauqua Suites, noon to 4 p.m.
Thursday - SUNY Fredonia Williams Center, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Oct. 8 - Bob Evans, Jamestown, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Oct. 9 - Blackstone Business Enterprises, Jamestown, noon to 4 p.m.
Oct. 15 - Blessed Mary Angela Roman Catholic Church, Dunkirk, noon to 6 p.m.
Oct. 23-24 - Jamestown Community College, Jamestown, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Oct. 25 - Jamestown Community College, Dunkirk, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Oct. 27 - Harley Davidson of Jamestown, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Oct. 28 - Elks Club BPOE 922, Dunkirk, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.