Red Cross and Suburban Propane join Jersey City first responders for 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive

Each September, Americans search for ways to commemorate the events of Sept. 11, 2001, with reverence and service. In that spirit, the American Red Cross and Suburban Propane joined the Jersey City Department of Public Safety for the fifth annual Jersey City Police and Fire 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive.

The drive took place on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2019, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Jersey City, NJ. All presenting donors received a Red Cross first aid kit, courtesy of Suburban Propane, a proud national sponsor of the American Red Cross Blood Services. Suburban Propane employees also volunteered at the blood drive as part of one of the largest national volunteer commitments to Red Cross Blood Services from a corporate partner.

“At Suburban Propane, a cornerstone of our mission statement is to serve, not only our customers and employees, but also the local communities in the 41 states in which we operate,” said Nandini Sankara, Spokesperson, Suburban Propane. “We support the American Red Cross and this solemn event that honors those whose lives were forever changed on September 11, including Jersey City first responders and members of our local communities who served so valiantly in the face of tragedy.”

Serving as the staging area for many 9/11 first responders and recovery teams, Jersey City provides an ideal location to commemorate this solemn anniversary. The blood drive venue offered amazing views looking over the Hudson River, the New York City skyline and the Freedom Tower, allowing blood donors and event participants to reflect on the day and to honor those who were involved.

“As we commemorate the 18th anniversary of the attacks on Sept. 11, it is our hope that the opportunity to give the gift of life will help to continue the healing process for everyone impacted by this unthinkable event,” said Rosie Taravella, CEO, Red Cross New Jersey Region. “We are so proud to honor the Jersey City Police and Fire Departments once again this year, as they were some of many first responders and unsung heroes that day.”

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass^® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.