FANS sponsors blood drive in Swannanoa

Area residents can donate blood on June 24

The Valley Echo
June 21, 2020

Courtesy of Friends and Neighbors of Swannanoa

As the American Red Cross continues to report an urgent need for blood donations, local nonprofit organization Friends and Neighbors of Swannanoa is stepping up to offer assistance.

FANS is sponsoring a blood drive, from 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Thursday, June 24, at Valley Hope Church, located at 115 Rockdale Avenue in Swannanoa.

The blood drive is being held with cooperation from the Western North Carolina chapter of the American Red Cross. Those interested in giving blood are required to schedule an appointment by calling or emailing Matt Barker at (828) 242-6345 or mwbarker63@gmail.com. Appointments can also be made by visiting redcrossblood.org, using the sponsor code “Valleyhope.”

In an effort to ensure the safety of those in attendance, organizers will require social distancing and face coverings while utilizing enhanced disinfecting and providing hand sanitizer.

With many blood drives around the country canceled due to COVID-19, the Red Cross is facing a critical need for donations. FANS sponsored a blood drive in late March that resulted in the collection of 42 pints of blood.

FANS is a coalition of citizens dedicated to strengthening the Swannanoa Valley community by engaging in activities that encourage participation and cooperation, and through joint efforts with other organizations that have compatible goals. The organization publishes a bi-monthly newsletter that provides news and information related to Swannanoa. For more information about FANS, visit swannanoafans.org.