BloodCenter of Wis. hosting Declaration for Donations Blood Drive

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- BloodCenter of Wisconsin is inviting donors to save the day for patients in need at its Declaration for Donations Blood Drive. The drive will be held Monday, July 1st from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Tuesday, July 2nd from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Tommy G. Thompson Youth Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park, 640 S. 84th Street, West Allis.

As a token of thanks, all attempting blood donors will receive a ticket to the Wisconsin State Fair, Aug. 1-11. Complimentary refreshments, child care and parking will be provided.

The need for blood is high during the summer months when the number of school and community blood drives decrease. It becomes even more critical around the Fourth of July because of travel and holiday celebrations. BloodCenter hopes to see more than 700 donors during the two-day drive to meet the needs of the patients it serves.

Donors can schedule an appointment by calling 1-877-BE-A-HERO (1-877-232-4376), visiting www.bcw.edu/appt  or m.bcw.edu on their mobile device.

Appointments are preferred to ensure a quick and convenient donation, but walk-ins are also welcome. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes birth date.

Anyone 17 or older who is in general good health and meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to donate blood. Parental consent is required for 16-year-olds to donate.