The Madison branch of the American Red Cross announced Tuesday that it had collected blood from 10,828 volunteer donors in the week since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
More than 11,000 people in the area have called the Red Cross' 1-800-GIVE-LIFE phone number to inquire about donating blood. In comparison, the 'Give Life' hotline received 4,527 calls from the Madison area between June 14 and Aug. 17 of this year.
In addition, the Red Cross said that nearly half of the past week's blood donors gave for the first time.
The Red Cross continues to encourage people to donate blood. To set up an appointment, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE. To make a contribution to other Red Cross relief efforts, call 1-800-HELP-NOW.
