The County Executive’s Corner: “Give the Gift of Life This New Year”

As we begin a new year, I encourage all Rockland residents to make giving the gift of life part of their New Year’s resolutions. 

Someone in the United States needs a transfusion every two seconds but unfortunately only 3% of age-eligible individuals in the U.S. give blood each year. Well, I’m here to tell you the importance of regular donations cannot be overstated, and I urge all Rockland residents to consider becoming donors.

As January is National Blood Donor Month, I am honored to officially recognize it here in Rockland County by presenting a proclamation to New York Blood Center (NYBC) in appreciation of their tireless efforts to ensure a steady and reliable blood supply.

This proclamation underscores the vital contributions of blood donors and collection organizations in saving lives and strengthening our healthcare system.

New York Blood Center is a lifeline for hospitals and patients across our region and provide critical blood and platelets to meet the needs of individuals undergoing surgery, cancer treatments, or emergency care. 

Yet, during the colder months, blood banks like NYBC face seasonal challenges such as inclement weather, flu outbreaks, and holiday distractions that contribute to blood shortages. This makes National Blood Donor Month a vital opportunity to raise awareness and encourage donations.

At the same event, we celebrated dedicated local partners of NYBC who have gone above and beyond to support this lifesaving mission. 

The Parish of St. Paul-St. Ann in Congers, for example, has contributed nearly 200 units of blood through its 2024 blood drives. Retired county employee Fred Cifuni was also recognized for his incredible achievement of donating 141 blood donations—more than 17 gallons in total. These contributions exemplify the generosity and community spirit that make Rockland County special.

Every blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives, and the demand for blood is constant. 

Together, we can ensure that blood is always available for those in need.

For more information on how to donate or host a blood drive, visit New York Blood Center’s website NYBC.org. 

Let’s work together to give the gift of life and make a difference in 2025.