Canadian Blood Services is hosting a blood donation event at the Innisfil YMCA on Monday afternoon.
The local YMCA is located at 7315 Yonge St., Unit 1. The Aug. 28 event runs from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
"The YMCA is proud to partner with Canadian Blood Services to support their blood donation events,” Innisfil YMCA centre manager Cynthya Dahan said. “We open our doors to Canadian Blood Services in hopes that this event will raise much-needed donations to support our community members and save lives. Together, we are building healthier, more vibrant communities."
"Summer is a particularly difficult time for maintaining an ideal blood and plasma supply,” states the event page on the town’s website. “Donation appointment cancellations are high due to donors travelling or being out of their regular routines. Make donating blood or plasma a part of your summer plans.”
Making an appointment to donate blood is simple. Click ‘Book Now’ on the blood.ca website and follow the steps. Note that there are eligibility requirements, such as age and weight, as well as restrictions on the form.
In addition to bringing their blood donor card — or valid identification if you're a first-time donor or can't find your blood donor card — and a list of medications, prospective donors are advised to eat a salty snack and drink 500 millilitres of water right before donating blood.
Canadian Blood Services did not respond to a request for comment for this story prior to publication.
To review the eligibility requirements to donate blood, click here or take the Canadian Blood Service's quiz.
