![Graphic reading: Hands up if you're donating](http://www.uwindsor.ca/dailynews/msw/sites/uwindsor.ca.dailynews/files/styles/full/public/900_handsup.jpg?itok=jgBY2rpZ)
The University of Windsor Alumni Association is inviting its members to sign on to a life-saving cause by partnering with Canadian Blood Services.
The association has pledged to contribute 50 blood donations this year at the organization’s Windsor location, 3909 Grand Marais Rd. E.
To help reach that goal, it has scheduled a blood drive Jan. 18 to 23. Alumni and friends of the University can book an appointment online, call 1-888-2DONATE (1-888-236-6283), or download the GiveBlood App. Learn more on the blood donation website.
To have a donation included in the Alumni Association’s pledge:
- Complete the Partners for Life Registration Form prior to using the Alumni Association’s partner ID: UNIV0092223.
- Tell clinic staff upon arrival that you would like your donation to count towards the Alumni Association’s pledge.
Those who can’t make it during the Jan. 18 to 23 blood drive or who are living outside of Windsor can donate at any Canadian Blood Services’ clinic. Visit Blood.ca to book an appointment and be sure to use the Alumni Association’s partner ID.
Canadian Blood Services is recognized as an essential service during the COVID-19 pandemic, says territory manager Marisa Gatfield.
“Blood donations at this time will be essential to collect platelets, a vital blood component with a short expiry of seven days that many patients living with cancer or a blood disorder may need for treatment,” she says. “The demand for blood never stops.”
The partnership is part of the association’s new Alumni Cares program, which will engage volunteers in giving back on campus and in the community to help those in need.