(Courtesy of Congregation Shaare Tefillah) Excitement is growing as Congregation Shaare Tefillah of Teaneck’s first blood drive, organized by its Men’s Club and the Red Cross, is rapidly approaching on September 16. The community-wide drive will be held 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. at 510 Claremont Avenue in the synagogue’s social hall.

The drive is imperative, as the Red Cross has declared an emergency need for blood donors. As the blood drive will take place between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, there is no better way to begin the New Year than by donating blood to those in need. The drive at Shaare Tefillah will be collecting regular blood as well as power red.

As an incentive to donors, the Red Cross and Chopstix will be teaming up to give all donors a $5 Chopstix certificate, a voucher for a free oil change at Bovan’s Auto Services in Cliffside Park and a voucher for a free haircut at participating Sport Clips hair salons.

In an effort to make the drive a true community-wide event, the Township of Teaneck and TVAC have advertised the drive in their social media posts, and Orthodox, Conservative and Reform congregations in Teaneck have agreed to promote the drive.

Advance registration is strongly encouraged, although walk-ins are welcome as well. To register in advance, please go to www.redcrossblood.org and enter Sponsor Code: Shaare Tefillah. For any questions, please contact Ari Davis at [email protected].