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YMCA of Metro North hosts blood drives as need increases across the region
LYNN — The YMCA of Metro North is partnering with the Northeast Chapter of the American Red Cross to host blood drives at the Greater Lynn YMCA April 17 and May 4.
Blood shortages are severe due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations in response to the coronavirus outbreak. To date, nearly, 2,700 Red Cross blood drives have been canceled across the country resulting in some 86,000 fewer blood donations, Metro North CEO Kathleen Walsh said.
“During this public health crisis, the YMCA is responding to the critical needs that are emerging almost daily,”Walsh said. “We are doing everything we can to be a positive force in the region and offer solutions where we are needed most.
“We provided emergency assistance with food, supplies, child care, and lifesaving supports that are helping to counter the impact of the coronavirus emergency.”
The drives will take place from noon to 5 p.m. April 17 and May 4 at 20 Neptune Blvd. Prospective donors can sign up for one of 40 time slots during each drive. The slots will allow Red Cross staff to maintain strict safety and social distancing protocols.
The blood drive will also raise funds for the Lynn YMCA. Dave Solimine Jr., a board member of the Northeast Chapter of the American Red Cross, and former chairman of the Greater Lynn YMCA, will donate $100 per pint collected.
“The need for life-saving blood is now at a critical point,” says Solimine. “I am so pleased that the Lynn YMCA has stepped up to assist the Red Cross by hosting Lynn Community Blood Drives.
“The YMCA and the Red Cross have a long history of collaboration to serve Lynn and other communities throughout the region,” he said.
Donors can call 1-800-733-2767 or visit RedCrossBlood.org to schedule an appointment. Donors should enter the sponsor code: LYNNYMCA when making their appointment.
The YMCA of Metro North has branches in Lynn, Melrose, Peabody, Saugus, and Stoneham.