August 2, 2002

In a joint effort to create public awareness about the shortage of blood donations during summer months, the MGH has teamed up with BWH, Boston Children's Hospital and the American Red Cross to conduct an advertising campaign designed to create public awareness and attract potential blood donors.

The monthlong campaign includes a widespread call for potential donors to give blood at a participating hospital or a Red Cross location. The promotional campaign, which began July 29, includes advertisements in local newspapers, magazines, radio stations and on the website Boston.com. Large posters and billboard ads are posted in subway stations closest to the hospitals. The ads are meant to educate people to the ongoing need for blood and the severity of summertime blood shortages. Kim Cronin of the MGH Blood Donor Center explains: "The decline of the blood supply has become a serious issue throughout the nation. Locally, the major blood collection groups have decided to join forces to help turn the trend around." This is the first joint initiative of its kind in the country.

The MGH Blood Donor Center, located on Gray 1, is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (617) 724-9699.