WHEREAS, the State of Maine is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in and visiting our state; and

WHEREAS, a sufficient blood supply is a public health issue both locally and nationally, and our hospitals and medical centers need a readily available supply for our residents and visitors; and

WHEREAS, one blood donation can help save more than one life, and although most of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood, only about 3 percent actually do; and

WHEREAS, Maine is home to many organizations committed to raising awareness about the importance of blood donation, including the American Red Cross; and

WHEREAS, Maine Blood Donation Day effectively serves to remind us that we need to constantly replenish our blood supply through donation and community awareness;

NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved that I, Janet T. Mills, Governor of the State of Maine, do hereby proclaim September 4th, 2024 as

Maine Blood Donation Day

throughout the State of Maine, and I urge all Maine people to support our local blood drives as saving lives and protecting our citizens is our primary goal.

In testimony whereof, I have caused the Great Seal of the State to be hereunto affixed GIVEN under my hand at Augusta this twenty eighth day of August Two Thousand Twenty-Four