Blood Drive, September 7, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

St. Peter's Episcopal Church, located at 99 Sand Hill Road, South Windsor, is hosting a blood drive Friday, September 7 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The American Red Cross continues to have an emergency need for blood and platelet donors of all blood types to give now and help save patient lives.

While thousands of people have responded to the urgent call for blood and platelet donations issued by the Red Cross in early July, an emergency need remains. Blood and platelet donations are needed now as many regular donors delay giving to take final summer vacations and prepare for school to start. Eligible donors, as well as those who have never given before, are urged to make and keep blood and platelet donation appointments to help ensure blood is available throughout the rest of the summer to meet patient needs. Blood and platelet donations are currently being distributed to hospitals as fast as donations are received.

Make an appointment by going on line and registering at www.redcrossblood.org. Search for zip code 06074 to find the church's blood drive. Sign up for a whole blood donation by clicking on "blood" at a time that works for you. If you meet the requirements, sign up for Power Red. The requirements are being within a certain physical size and having O negative, O positive, A or B negative blood type.

Church members will be offering sandwiches and home made baked goods to help you recover from your generous donation.