Rockland County Executive Ed Day has declared January 2025 as National Blood Donor Month, emphasizing the importance of blood donation in saving lives and supporting health care systems. In a ceremony marking the occasion, County Executive Day presented an honorary proclamation to the New York Blood Center (NYBC) in recognition of its vital contributions to maintaining a steady blood supply for hospitals and patients across the region.
Blood donations play a critical role in medical treatments, from surgeries and cancer care to emergency response. January is a particularly challenging time for blood banks due to factors like seasonal illnesses, weather disruptions, and holiday distractions, which often result in supply shortages.
The proclamation also acknowledged local partners who have significantly contributed to blood donation efforts in Rockland County. Among them was the Parish of St. Paul-St. Ann in Congers, which collected nearly 200 units of blood during its 2024 drives, and retired county employee Fred Cifuni, whose 141 lifetime donations equate to more than 17 gallons of blood.
Blood donation, which can save up to three lives per unit, is a consistent need nationwide, with someone requiring a transfusion every two seconds in the United States. Officials highlighted the role of community collaboration and individual commitment in addressing this ongoing demand.
For those interested in contributing, information on donating blood or organizing drives is available on the New York Blood Center’s website.
