October 26, 2004 > Even Blood Banks Get into the Halloween Spirit

by Sara O'Brien

The American Red Cross is having a little fun with the Halloween theme and will give T-shirts featuring a vampire, and other spirits, to blood donors from Monday, October 25 - Saturday, October 30 at all blood drives and in all blood collection centers in Northern California. There is a collection in Newark at the Cedar Village Shopping Center, next to Newark High School open Tuesday - Saturday (hours vary) and a blood drive at Ohlone College in Fremont on Tuesday, October 26 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

"Everyone thinks of vampires at Halloween and there is a tie-in to blood that can't be denied, so why not make the most of it," says Sara O'Brien, American Red Cross spokeswoman. "If we can encourage a few new donors to give blood by getting into the Halloween spirit, we'll be happy."

Red Cross employees are also being encouraged to dress-up in Halloween costumes on Friday, October 29 and donors are welcome to wear costumes too as long as the Red Cross can still have access to their arms for their donation.
All eligible donors are encouraged to call or go online today to schedule a blood donation appointment:

Donating blood takes about an hour, with the actual donation lasting about seven minutes. Blood donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh 110 pounds or more and be in general good health. It is recommended blood donors drink plenty of water and eat a light meal before giving blood.

Blood Donation
Tuesday, October 26
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Ohlone College
43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont