Central Maine Healthcare to host blood drive to honor Lewiston shooting victims

Central Maine Healthcare, in partnership with the American Red Cross, will host a community blood drive on Friday, October 27, to honor the victims of the mass shooting that occurred in Lewiston on October 25.

The event is scheduled to take place from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Central Maine Healthcare headquarters in Lewiston. Organizers state the blood drive is intended to be a tangible act of community solidarity, channeling the collective grief and desire to help into a life-saving mission.

"This initiative allows us to transform a moment of profound tragedy into an opportunity for healing and positive action," said a statement from Central Maine Healthcare. The drive seeks to address the critical need for blood donations that often follows such large-scale community traumas, while also serving as a memorial to the individuals whose lives were lost.

All members of the public are encouraged to participate. The American Red Cross will manage the donation process, and interested individuals can schedule an appointment by visiting the Red Cross website or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS. Walk-ins will also be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability.