Clark Blood Drive July 28 Offers Mets Tickets to Donors

The Clark Volunteer Emergency Squad is holding a blood drive today, Tuesday, July 28, from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m., at the Squad House at 875 Raritan Road. The drive comes as blood reserves remain at critically low levels across the region.

At the July 14 blood drive, CVES collected 37 units. More donations are needed. Every donor who gives today will receive two tickets to a New York Mets game as a thank-you, according to Union County Life's coverage of Clark community health initiatives.

"Our blood inventory is at a critically low level, and hospitals continue to rely on us to support trauma patients, cancer patients, transplant recipients, premature infants, and others in need of lifesaving transfusions," said Genevieve Toscano, Manager of New Jersey Blood Services. "Every appointment, every donor, and every unit matters right now."

Recent heat and storms have left blood reserves at critical lows. The Food and Drug Administration has lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions.

Eligibility: Donors must be between 17 and 75 years old. Sixteen-year-olds may qualify with parental consent. Donors over 75 need written consent from a physician. Blood donors may give once every 56 days. Platelet donors may give twice a month. Current eligibility guidelines are available at nybc.org/eligibility.

Location and parking: The Squad House at 875 Raritan Road offers private, lighted, off-street parking.

The New York Blood Center also accepts financial contributions and volunteers to support its mission. Anyone with questions about CVES or interested in joining can email CVES@ourclark.com.

For more Clark community news and volunteer opportunities, Union County Life covers local civic engagement.

FAQ

Q: When is the Clark blood drive happening?
A: Today, Tuesday, July 28, 2026, from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Clark Volunteer Emergency Squad House at 875 Raritan Road.

Q: Why is this blood drive urgent?
A: Blood reserves are at critically low levels due to recent heat and storms. Hospitals need blood to support trauma patients, cancer patients, transplant recipients, premature infants, and others in need of lifesaving transfusions.

Q: What do I get for donating?
A: Every donor who gives blood on July 28 receives two free tickets to a New York Mets game as a thank-you.

Q: Who can donate blood?
A: You must be between 17 and 75 years old. Sixteen-year-olds may donate with parental consent. Those over 75 need written physician consent. Current eligibility guidelines are available at nybc.org/eligibility.

Q: How often can I donate blood?
A: Blood donors may give once every 56 days. Platelet donors may give twice per month.

Q: Is there parking available?
A: Yes. The Squad House offers private, lighted, off-street parking for donors.

Q: How can I learn more or get involved?
A: Contact the Clark Volunteer Emergency Squad at CVES@ourclark.com. The New York Blood Center also accepts financial contributions and volunteers.