Island Harvest and New York Blood Center Partner to ‘Feed the Need’

Mineola-based non-profit , Long Island’s largest community food bank, and New York Blood Center, Long Island’s largest community blood bank, are working together to help feed the hungry and make sure the summer blood inventory stays at adequate levels during the Fourth of July holiday week.

Beginning July 1 and continuing until July 8, a total of 11 ‘Feed the Need’ blood drives will be held across Long Island.

“The summer months and especially the Fourth of July holiday pose quite a challenge for us,” NYBC Vice President Rob Purvis said in a statement. “Most people are busy with their summer activities. ‘Feed the Need’ is a great solution to not only our needs but also the hunger problem on Long Island.”

The first scheduled drive will be held on July 2 at the in New Hyde Park from 1:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

All those who come to donate at a “Feed the Need” blood drive are asked to bring five non-perishable food items. As a special thank you, New York Blood Center will provide two Mets tickets for an upcoming home game to all presenting donors. 

Blood and blood products can only come from volunteer blood donors who take an hour to attend a blood drive or visit a donor center.

For more information call 1-800-933-2566, ex. 386 or to schedule an appointment. Walk-in donors are welcome.