COEUR d’ALENE, Idaho – Vitalant is partnering up with Kootenai Health to host two community blood drives in honor of first responders and to support ongoing hospital needs.
The two organizations planned this in response to the incident Sunday afternoon where and another hospitalized after being shot at while responding to a reported brush fire.
“The unexpected violence underscores the urgency of being prepared for medical emergencies—and having an adequate blood supply ready to go at a moment’s notice,” Vitalant stated in a press release about the event.
“Every drop of blood on a hospital shelf is a lifeline when seconds count,” said Michael Martinez, Regional Director for Vitalant. “These firefighters ran toward danger for their community—and donating blood is one meaningful way we can honor that selflessness. It’s how we help others during the hardest moments and ensure that when emergencies happen, we’re ready.”
The first of the two blood drives will be held on Thursday, July 3 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. at the Ponderosa Tamarack Conference Room at Kootenai Health, 2003 Kootenai Health Way, Coeur d’Alene.
The second of the two blood drives will be held at the same location on Friday, July 11 from 7:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
“More than 60% of the population is eligible to give blood, yet fewer than 10% donate. Vitalant urges the community to step forward during this time of grief and support,” said the press release.
To make an appointment or check availability, people can visit www.vitalant.org/coeurdalene or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).
