Air-conditioned, New York Blood Center RV busmobile at a recent Long Island blood drive.Photo Michael Scro Kings Park PatchOn August 20, state Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. and four staffers welcomed 35 residents to his first summer blood drive between 9 a.m until 3 p.m. at a time of the year when area hospitals report critical shortages. The drive was co-sponsored with New York Blood Center (NYBC) and 95.5 WPLJ’s Summer Blood Tour. The NYBC busmobile was parked outside Rite Aid, 65-35 Woodhaven Blvd., Rego Park. All donors received a free copy of WPLJ’s Scott & Todd’s phone scams CD.
New York Blood Center requires more than 2,000 volunteer blood donations each day to meet the transfusion needs of patients throughout the metropolitan area.  “A stable base of voluntary blood donors who give regularly is the foundation of a safe and adequate blood supply,” said NYBC Vice President Rob Purvis. 
“With schools out, and many people on vacation, our blood drive was the perfect opportunity to remind everyone about the importance of rolling up their sleeves and donating blood,” Addabbo said. “We are proud that 35 of our neighbors and friends stepped up and 28 pints of blood were accepted for donation to New York Blood Center for patients in our community.”
Addabbo plans to hold another blood drive in his district next year.