By MATT DEMIRS
Responding to fires isn’t the only thing the Lynn Fire Department can be credited with.
The Fire Department answered when Boston Children’s Hospital reached out for a place to host a blood donation when plans for another location fell through last week.
On Friday, the hospital’s 40-foot long Bloodmobile will be stationed at the Lynn Fire Headquarters on 725 Western Ave.
Ryan Newhall, who has been the site coordinator for several years, is asking for help from the community to provide donations at a time when the blood bank is low, he said.
“This is a tough time for Boston Children’s Hospital blood bank due to holidays and vacations,” he said. “There is a critical need for donors.”
Every donation can help up to four children awaiting blood, he said.
The 13-year Lynn firefighter knows the need for donations after seeing those in critical condition.
“As firefighters, we see first hand everyday how important it is that blood banks maintain their supply,” he said. “When they call and ask us to step up, when they need our help, there is no way we are going to say no to those kids.”
There are more than 70 spots Lynn fire is looking to fill with donors.
After registering, a donor can complete the entire process, including screening, donating and post donation in approximately 30 minutes, according to the Boston Children’s Hospital’s website.
In order to donate, participants must register before the event at halfpints.childrenshospital.org with sponsor code LYNNFIRE. Ryan Newhall can also be contacted at 781-710-0054.
The bloodmobile will be at 725 Western Ave. between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Friday.
Matt Demirs can be reached at [email protected].