YCSO to host blood drive

The Young County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with Carter Blood Care to host a blood drive at the Young County Law Enforcement Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21.

The idea for YCSO to host a blood drive came from a deputy who joined the department six months ago, David Crouch.

“I came in from the metroplex area in South Dallas, Kaufman County area and we tried to do them (blood drives) before during the holidays because we know during the holiday, unfortunately, people make bad choices and sometimes accidents happen and people need blood,” Crouch said.

The deputy said this is something he hopes YCSO and the county will be able to continue doing.

“My goal is to try to do it twice a year,” Crouch said. “One time during the summer time, and one time during the winter, and try to help the local blood drives for any kind of accidents or any kind of blood donations that they be needing.”

He added he is hopeful residents will be able to come out in force as he has set a large goal.

“They say that most of the time the numbers range anywhere from mid 20s to 30s,” Crouch said. “I’m actually trying to get at least 50 people, that is why I scheduled two buses, so the lines won’t be as long.”
According to Carter Blood Care’s website, those who plan on donating should wait to donate if an important social, sports of live event is coming up. Those interested in donating should also wait if not feeling well or healthy.

“They will need to have a photo ID with them, even if they have given before, always bring a photo ID,” Carter Blood Care’s Director of Public Relations Linda Goelzer said. “A person needs to weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, they must be 17 years or older to give blood independently. If they are 16-years-old they can give blood with a parents consent.”

She added the consent forms can be found online at www.carterbloodcare.org or filled out on-site.

For the full story, see the Wednesday, Dec. 18 edition of The Graham Leader.