Assemblyman Mike Norris (R,C-Lockport) would like to thank the community for coming out to support the recent blood drive he sponsored with the American Red Cross at the Lockport Family YMCA during this time of severe national blood shortage. The drive was intended to collect 20 pints of blood, yet exceeded expectations by collecting 28 pints – including six first-time donors as well.

“Once again, our community’s generosity exceeds expectations. As a regular blood donor myself I am so encouraged to see more people coming out and realizing the need to donate. This is a very simple, safe and efficient process that does not take up much of your time – but can literally save the life of someone else,” said Norris. “There really is not an easier way to save a life than by becoming a blood donor. I would like to thank everyone who donated, and the Red Cross for their tireless efforts. But especially I would like to thank those first-time donors who came out. I hope to see them again at our next drive.”

With each pint of blood having the potential to save up to three people’s lives, the drive at the Lockport YMCA has the potential to save as many as 84 people’s lives.

Of the units collected, six were considered “power red” or whole blood and 29 percent of the donations were Type O – meaning these donations can help a wider demographic of people in times of need.

If you are interested in donating blood with the American Red Cross you can go to redcross.org or sign up for one of the following upcoming events in communities within the 144^th Assembly District:

• Lockport: March 22: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., The Dale Association Incorporated, 33 Ontario St. AND March 23: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Moose Lodge #617, 204 Monroe St.

• Newfane: March 28: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Newfane Town Hall Community Center, 2737 Main Street

• Wilson: March 22: 11:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Wilson High School Library, 412 Lake St.

• Youngstown: March 29: 1:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., Youngstown Fire Hall, 625 3rd St.