[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 14 (Thursday, January 23, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H310]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       NATIONAL BLOOD DONOR MONTH

  (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
January as National Blood Donor Month.
  Since its inception in 1970, National Blood Donor Month has aimed to 
increase blood and platelet donations during one of the most 
challenging times of the year for collecting blood products; the winter 
months.
  In my district, the Centre County Commissioners have officially 
proclaimed January as National Blood Donor Month in Centre County, 
joining the nationwide effort to honor and celebrate those who 
selflessly roll up their sleeves to help patients in need.
  Since July 2024, the Central Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Red 
Cross has held 101 blood drives in Centre County, collecting over 3,000 
units of blood. According to the Red Cross' Centre County operations, 
this is the highest count in the region.
  Mr. Speaker, it is staggering to realize that someone in this country 
needs blood once every two seconds. By the time I finish this speech, 
nearly 30 people will require access to a blood transfusion.
  Blood donations are critical because the supply relies entirely on 
the generosity of donors. It cannot be manufactured or stockpiled. To 
meet patients' needs, the Red Cross must collect 12,500 units of blood 
every single day.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge everyone listening to visit redcrossblood.org and 
click on the ``Donate Blood'' tab to find a blood drive nearby.

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