JERSEY CITY, NJ, August 21, 2026 — As the nation marks 25 years since the events of Sept.11, Americans search for ways to commemorate the day with reverence and service. In that spirit, the American Red Cross and Suburban Propane will join the Jersey City Department of Public Safety for the 12^th annual Jersey City Police and Fire 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive.

The community blood drive will take place on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson, located at 2 Exchange Place in Jersey City. Parking will be validated for all donors at One Parking, located at 10 Exchange Place. To schedule an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter sponsor code Jersey City 911 or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

“As we mark the anniversary of the attacks on Sept. 11, we should hold in our hearts the memory of all those we lost, honor the brave responders who helped that day and in the months that followed, and remember our sense of community and help our neighbors when they need us,” said Wendy Vara, Regional Executive, American Red Cross New Jersey Region.

The blood drive is open to the public. Serving as the staging area for many Sept.11 first responders and recovery teams, Jersey City provides an ideal location to commemorate this solemn anniversary. The generously donated blood drive venue offers amazing views looking over the Hudson River, the New York City skyline and One World Trade Center, allowing blood donors to reflect on the day and to honor those who were involved.

“On the 25th anniversary of September 11th, we at Suburban Propane stand together with the American Red Cross and the Jersey City Police & Fire Departments to host the 12th annual 9/11 Memorial Blood Drive. This important event allows us to honor the lives lost, recognize the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice displayed on that fateful day, and come together as a community in remembrance,” said Nandini Sankara, Spokesperson, Suburban Propane. “We are honored to continue our support of this meaningful event, which serves as a powerful reminder of the strength, compassion and resilience of our community, and our shared commitment to offering hope and help to those in need.”

All presenting donors will receive a complimentary Red Cross Sportster Mug courtesy of Suburban Propane, a proud national sponsor of the American Red Cross.

In addition, all who come to give Sept. 1-20, 2026, will receive a Red Cross x Hello Kitty plush mascot and surprise sticker pack, while supplies last. Which three stickers will you get? Visit RedCrossBlood.org/HelloKitty for details. 

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass^® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on social media.

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* Offers and items are non-transferable and are not redeemable for cash. Items are available while supplies last.