Village of Buffalo Grove to hold LifeSource 'Summer Rescue' blood drive July 2

The Village of Buffalo Grove will host a "Summer Rescue" blood drive from 2-7 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, at Station #26, 1051 Highland Grove Drive, Buffalo Grove.

The blood drive is sponsored by Chicagoland blood center LifeSource.

The timing of a Fourth-of-July weekend community blood drive couldn't be more ideal, says LifeSource, because this summer holiday has the most impact on the Chicago area blood supply. All blood types are needed at the blood drive.

The summer months are difficult on the local blood supply, LifeSource adds, because frequent donors go on vacations, or have to stay at home to look after their school age children.

Appointments for the blood drive are preferred, but all walk-ins are welcome. Donors can schedule their appointment by calling LifeSource at (877) 543-3768, or visiting www.lifesource.org and making an appointment using group code 041D.

To encourage participation at the blood drive, Culver's of Buffalo Grove will offer to participating donors a coupon for a free pint of Culver's custard as part of its ongoing "Give a Pint, Get a Pint" partnership with LifeSource.

Proper ID is required to donate blood. A LifeSource or military ID, driver's license, or employee badge with picture and full name are approved forms of ID. A birth certificate along with a picture ID that includes the donor full name will also be accepted.

Along with hosting daily blood drives, LifeSource operates 19 community donor centers and four fixed sites with regular operating days and hours. In preparation for their donation, donors are asked to eat well, stay hydrated and arrive with proper identification. Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (or 16 years old with parental consent).