CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – The American Red Cross is partnering with 9/11 Day to offer individuals a chance to help others and commemorate the events of Sept. 11 by giving blood or platelets or volunteering their time with the Red Cross.

9/11 Day was launched in 2002 as an annual day of service to honor the victims and heroes of Sept. 11. Since then, it has evolved into the largest annual day of charitable engagement in the U.S. and was designated as a National Day of Service and Remembrance by the U.S. Congress in 2009. Each year tens of millions of people observe the day by performing acts of service and good deeds.

“Giving blood or platelets is a fitting way for people to remember those who lost their lives on 9/11 and to honor the first responders who rose up in response to the attacks and those who serve and protect communities every day,” said Matthew Carver, Director of Collections for the Red Cross River Valley Region.

Blood donors of all types – especially those with types AB, O negative, A negative and B negative – and platelet donors are encouraged to give. Type O negative is the universal blood type that can be transfused to patients of any blood type. It is often used to treat trauma patients and is always in demand by hospitals.

Those who would like to observe the 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance by donating blood or platelets are encouraged to make an appointment to give at one of the following locations:

Montgomery
Clarksville
9/7/2015: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., American Red Cross, 1760 Madison St.

How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.