Woy Woy is part of blood challenge

Woy Woy blood donor centre is to be part of an Australian Red Cross Blood Service Local Council Challenge on the Central Coast.

Gosford and Wyong councils are hoping to provide the blood service with 100 extra blood donations before July 9.

Gosford mayor Cr Chris Holstein said the community was being invited to join with council staff in making the donations.

"Gosford Council is a long-standing supporter of the blood service and is more than happy to encourage our staff to donate blood," Cr Holstein said.

"It's such an easy way to help people in our local community and I would encourage residents who are eligible to give blood to follow our lead and do so."

According to Central Coast Blood Service manager Ms Rochelle Jackson: "On the Central Coast alone the blood service needs to collect 500 blood donations every week to meet the ongoing demand for blood.

Blood is needed all year round but particularly in the lead-up to winter, when demand increases but many regular donors are unable to donate due to colds and flu.

For further information, call 131 495 or visit www.donateblood.com.au.

Press release, 15 Apr 2010 Jacqui Bell, Australian Red Cross Blood Service