Watch CBS News

Blood Drive Busy In Needham As Red Cross Looks To Help Kentucky Tornado Victims

NEEDHAM (CBS) -- With miles of Kentucky leveled by the tornadoes this weekend, it's likely going to be several weeks before they can get blood drives up and going. That's what makes blood donation centers, like the one in Needham, are so important.

Sunday's blood drive was busy collecting much-needed donations to help the injured.

The American Red Cross of Massachusetts is sending a crew to Kentucky to help those displaced.

"All the more reason you need people to donate," said blood donor Bruce Lustig.

Lustig felt compelled to help because he knows that the blood supply is at a historic low.

"Grateful that I can come. I encourage other people to come and give blood too. It doesn't take much time and you'll probably be helping someone," he added.

The Massachusetts Task Force 1 sent one of their own to Kentucky to help with search and rescue efforts along with specialized equipment.

"A tornado was on the ground for the entire length from Boston to New York. That is very remarkable," explained Thomas Gatzunis of the Massachusetts Task Force 1.

Responders are digging through the wreckage looking for the missing.

Gatzunis said the search is thorough and includes "if you see a building that's completely pancaked and flat where people can be trapped and still alive."

For more information on how you can donate to a local blood drive click here and here.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.