KINGS POINT, N.Y. , August 13, 2014 -The public are invited to attend the United States Merchant Marine Academy’s (USMMA) upcoming Blood Drive to benefit Long Island Blood Services. USMMA hosts three blood drives during each Academic Year, and this blood drive takes on critical importance.

Karen Muscolino, Director of Donor Recruitment for the Long Island Blood Services, has indicated that they are in a donation appeal status of RED ALERT. Supplies of blood, especially type O negative, are at critically low levels for this time of year and donations are greatly sought and appreciated.  Each donation has the potential to save three lives.

When:   Monday, August 18, 2014

Where:  U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, 300 Steamboat Road, Kings Point, New York – Land Hall

Time:     6:00 to 10:00 pm

Open to the public who meet the following eligibility criteria:

• ID with signature and photo
• Minimum weight 110 lbs
• Age 16 - 75 (16 year-olds must present written permission from a parent.  Individuals 76 and over must present a doctor's note)
• Must be well-hydrated and have eaten a low fat meal
• No tattoos for past 12 months

Please note:  Certain donors who have travelled internationally within the last year, may not be eligible to donate. This will be determined at the time of registration and on a case by case basis depending on where travel took place.

For additional information please click the following Public Service Announcement from L.I. Blood Services. If you have questions, please call 1.800.688.0900