April 26, 2021

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The local supply of blood and platelets, critical for patients needing surgery, during trauma situations or when receiving treatment for cancer, is dangerously low.  To help stabilize and replenish the supply, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) Hamilton, 1 Hamilton Health Place, Hamilton, NJ, is hosting a community blood and platelet drive on Monday, May 12 from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm in the hospital’s Outpatient Auditorium on the first floor of Outpatient Services Building # 5.

“The blood supply has been strained and very unstable since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. After 14 months of not having access to many of our usual donor groups, the situation has become quite dire,” said Richard Freeman, President and Chief Executive Officer, RWJUH Hamilton.

While walk-ins are welcome, appointments are strongly encouraged to help maintain physical distancing protocols. Blood and platelet donors may schedule an appointment by phone at 732-235-8100, ext. 221 or online at http://www.rwjuhdonorclub.org. Donors with questions about medical eligibility for donation can call 732-235-8100, ext. 248.

Blood collected during the drive will remain within the RWJBarnabas Health system, including the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton and the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. 

Multiple protocols are in place to ensure the health and safety of donors, including pre-screening upon entry, mandatory masking and physical distancing of stations and enhanced disinfecting protocols of high-touch surfaces.  All donors receive refreshments at the bedside, a “Life’s Essential” tee shirt and a chance to win a $50 gift card.  Platelet donors also receive a $10 gift card. 

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