January 2025
The American Red Cross is kicking off the new year with a series of blood drives across the Southern Tier, aiming to maintain a strong blood supply during the winter months.
January marks National Blood Donor Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the importance of blood donations. However, this period often presents challenges for collection efforts due to severe winter weather and the prevalence of cold and flu season, which can lead to cancellations and donor shortages.
The Red Cross is urging healthy individuals to make and keep donation appointments to help ensure blood availability for patients in need. Appointments can be scheduled online at redcrossblood.org, by calling 1-800-REDCROSS, or through the Blood Donor app.
Special Incentive for Donors
To show appreciation, donors who give blood between January 1 and January 26 will automatically be entered into a Super Bowl LIX giveaway. The grand prize includes tickets to the game, pre-game activities, access to the official Super Bowl Experience, round-trip airfare, a three-night hotel stay, and a $1,000 gift card. The trip is scheduled for February 7–10, 2025.
Upcoming Blood Drives
Chemung County
- Elmira
- St. Joseph’s Hospital: Jan. 17, 1–5 p.m. (555 East Market St.)
- First Presbyterian Church: Jan. 17, 1–6 p.m. & Jan. 23, 1–6 p.m. (1054 West Clinton St.)
- Elmira Correctional Facility: Jan. 22, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. (1879 Davis St.)
- Horseheads
- Horseheads Elks Lodge 2297: Jan. 13, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. (9 Prospect Hill Rd.)
- American Legion Post 442: Jan. 22, 12:30–5:30 p.m. (71 Old Ithaca Rd.)
- Millport
- Pine Valley Baptist Church: Jan. 9, 2–6 p.m. (4872 Pinecrest Rd.)
Schuyler County
- Watkins Glen
- Watkins Glen Community Center: Jan. 20, Noon–4:30 p.m. (155 S. Clute Park Dr.)
Steuben County
- Addison
(Details pending)
The Red Cross emphasizes that blood donations are critical year-round but especially during the winter when challenges to collection are most acute. By donating, participants can help save lives and make a meaningful difference in their community.
