Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay) announced the blood drives he organized in Saranac Lake, Malone and Plattsburgh to combat summer shortages had a successful turnout and helped collect lifesaving blood for North Country blood banks.

“Blood drives are one of the most important ways communities can come together to help one another,” Jones said. “There’s often a dip in blood donations during the summer months, but the need for lifesaving blood in local hospitals never goes away. The generous volunteers who came out to support our North Country neighbors are a testament to the great folks who make up our communities.”

Clinton County Sheriff David Favro spoke about the impact that donating blood can have on members of the community.

“To me, donating blood is an honorable and rewarding experience,” said Favro. “Throughout my 36 years of public service, I have encountered several emergency situations in which I was unable to readily help someone. Donating blood serves as a unique opportunity to aid a total stranger in their time of need.”

Elizah Hatch of local marketing company, Boire Benner Group, talked about the simplicity and importance of giving blood.

“Giving blood is easy, takes very little time and really helps members of my community,” said Hatch. “Due to the fact that platelets from my blood type are beneficial to those battling cancer, I try to donate as often as possible. My parents and relatives always stressed the importance of donating routinely so I try to instill those same values in my children.”

Assemblyman Jones’ blood drives collected a total of 86 units of blood from over 100 donors, including Clinton County Sheriff David Favro, Kelly O’Brien of WCAX News, members of the Borie Benner Group staff and Joel Wood from Congresswoman Elise Stefanik’s office.

Blood and platelets can only come from donors, they cannot be manufactured. Each donation can provide treatment for up to three patients undergoing surgeries, cancer treatment or treatment for chronic and traumatic injuries. These blood drives are vital to ensure lifesaving blood is available at local blood banks for those who need it, noted Jones.