Donations for Backpacks, Blood Services

Patch catches up with the doings of local Suffolk County legislators.

Volunteers will be helping scores of needy children at the 7th Annual Back Pack Pirates Summer Fest in late August. 

According to Legislator Lou D’Amaro, D-Huntington Station, children ages 6-17 will spend a day at Dorothy P Flint 4-H Camp in Riverhead. At the end of the day, they'll receive backpacks loaded with school supplies.

Invitations to the Back Pack Pirates event will be distributed at homeless shelters, parish outreaches, and to families at Department of Labor sites across Suffolk County. Children will spend the day with several fun camp activities, including treasure hunts, swimming, nature games, a barbeque lunch and entertainment.

“These needy children don’t often get a chance to experience this type of adventure,” D’Amaro said. 

Blood Donor Honored

 Dix Hills resident Neil Harris was honored with a proclamation presented by Suffolk County Legis. Steve Stern, D-Huntington for making his 100th donation of platelets and plasma to New York Blood Services.

 Plasma and platelets are used to treat burn and cancer patients, those with blood disorders, bone marrow transplant patients and accident victims.  Platelets have a shelf life of only five days. Shortages are especially acute during the summer when donations drop.  Donations of whole blood are also needed year-round. 

  “I thank Neil for his dedication to blood donation and in particular for taking the time to donate needed platelets and plasma,” Stern said.  “I encourage those who are able to donate, to follow Neil’s example and help save the lives of our neighbors.” Information about blood donation guidelines and appointment locations can be obtained by visiting www.nybloodcenter.org   or by calling 1-(800) 933-2566.

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