News Release July 06, 2007

Blood Supply Hard Hit by Mid-Week Holiday; Summer Activities

Community encouraged to make blood donation appointments

Contact:
Julie Scott
303.361.2873
Bonfils Blood Center

DENVER (July 6, 2007) – As thousands of Coloradans are enjoying a long Fourth of July holiday weekend, not only our state's but the entire southwest region's community blood supply has sharply declined. Today, Bonfils Blood Center is encouraging community members to take a little time to make a big difference by giving blood in order to meet the demands of our hospital partners and patients in need. Each blood donation takes less than an hour and can save and enhance the lives of up to three patients.

Now through Saturday, July 14 each blood donor will receive a Bonfils t-shirt for their donation. Beginning July 15 through Sept. 8, donors will receive a Bonfils water bottle in appreciation of their donation.

Call the Bonfils Blood Center appointment center today at (303) 363-2300 or (800) 365.0006 opt. 2 or visit us online at www.bonfils.org to schedule a donation appointment and to find a blood drive or donor center location near you. If your business, civic group or faith-based organization is interested supporting by the community blood supply by hosting a blood drive at your facility this summer please call (303) 739-4001 for more information.

Bonfils Blood Center supplies blood to more than 200 healthcare facilities and needs to collect 4,350 blood donations weekly to meet the needs of the community and to be prepared for any unexpected events. For information about scheduling a blood donation, please visit www.bonfils.org or call (800) 365-0006.