By Sydney Havens

Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay and Oswego Mayor Billy Barlow have announced they will host their annual blood drive to benefit the American Red Cross on May 6, from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Roy C. McCrobie Civic Center, located at 41 Lake St. in Oswego. 

“I’m proud to host this year’s blood drive with Mayor Barlow and the American Red Cross,” Barclay said. For 10 straight years, I have partnered with the American Red Cross and admire their commitment and the critical role they play in providing services and assistance to those in need. Their dedication to our community, and so many others like it, truly saves lives.”

According to the Red Cross, every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood and currently there is an urgent need for all blood types.

“I’m honored to join Assemblyman Barclay once again,” Barlow said. “By giving just one pint of blood, each person can save up to three lives. It’s an incredible way to spend an hour out of the day.”

It typically takes about 8-10 minutes to give blood, according to staff at the Red Cross. Eligible donors must weigh at least 110 pounds and be between 16 and 75 years old. 16-year-olds must have parental permission and those older than 76 require a doctor’s note and cannot have received a tattoo within the past year. Donors are encouraged to eat well and hydrate prior to their appointment.

To schedule an appointment, contact Barclays office at 315-598-5185 or visit the American Red Cross at https://www.redcrossblood.org/.

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