Upcoming blood drives

NEWTON — The Red Cross in northern New Jersey is on a mission to recruit blood donors to give during the month of April. The Red Cross is concerned about the local blood supply as blood regions that export blood are experiencing union activity and are not able to collect. In an effort to keep this from impacting local hospitals, the Red Cross is asking the community to donate blood during April and/or recruit a family member or friend to roll up their sleeve and donate blood. Donors must be adults, or 16 years of age with parental consent, be in good health, and weigh at least 110 pounds. Blood cannot be manufactured and can only come from volunteer donors. Five million patients in the US need blood every year. To make an appointment call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit www.redcrossblood.org. The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. Dates, times and locations Saturday, April 21, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. First Presbyterian Church in Stanhope Monday, April 23, 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Red Cross, Spring Street in Newton Sunday, May 6, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. LOWE’s of Newton Wednesday, May 16, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Forest Manor Health Care, Hope Wednesday, May 16, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Ogdensburg Elementary School Saturday, May 19, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reverend Brown School, Sparta