Community Blood Drive Bolsters Medical Center's Supplies

The need for blood is never-ending at a busy hospital like Somerset Medical Center, and because of strict requirements and busy schedules, the supply from regular donors has been dwindling.

That's why an event like Tuesday's community blood drive at the municipal complex is so so helpful: the more than 40 participants helped provide some relief to the stressed supply.

"It won't be around for very long," Donor Program Supervisor Christia Keyte said.

The event was set for 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., but a group of firefighters asked if the hours could be extended so they could stop in to donate and Keyte said the drive was stretched to 9 p.m.

Among Tuesday's donors was Carol Ianniello, a member of the Finderne Rescue Squad, who came with her daughter in response to a call for donors. 

"They said there wasn't a large response, so we signed up," she said. She said it was her first time to participate.

If you missed out at the drive, you can still still help keep the blood supplies adequate at one set for 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Jan. 29, hosted by the Somerville—Bridgewater Rotary and PeopleCare Center at the PeopleCare Center at 120 Finderne Ave. To register, call Marie Hughes at 908-725-2299.