(Peoria, IL, November 5, 2012) – In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, there is no question that we have much to be thankful for in Central Illinois. However, there are many people who could use our help both on the East Coast and here at home. According to the American Red Cross, as of October 30 the storm had already caused the cancellation of more than 300 blood drives along the East Coast. While Sandy will decrease the number of people available to donate in the affected areas, hospitals still need blood despite the weather. Every day, more than 17,000 pints of blood must be collected to support the need of patients at more than 3,000 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country.
During times of tragedy, pets can also be affected when tough decisions need to be made. Estimates show that six to eight million pets go to a shelter every year and according to the Humane Society of the United States, three to four million pets are euthanized annually because shelters are overcrowded and not every pet can find a home. The A.R.K. (Animal Recycling Kennel) is a no-kill animal shelter, run entirely by volunteers, who rescues homeless animals and those at risk of being euthanized at other shelters.
The good news is that you can choose to make a difference. On Saturday, November 10th, East Court Village shopping center in Pekin, IL, will host its first annual ‘Day of Giving’ at 3475 Court St, next to Dunham’s Sports. The event, to be held between 10am and 2pm, will feature three opportunities to give. Area residents can choose to become a blood donor, donate non-perishable food items to be given to Pekin Salvation Army, or to adopt a pet in need from The A.R.K. no-kill shelter.
American Red Cross staff members will be onsite to accept blood donations in the blood mobile. All presenting blood donors will receive a travel coffee mug and a chance to win an iPod Nano. Call 309.999.1700 to reserve your blood donation appointment. Additionally, volunteers from The A.R.K. will be onsite with a variety of adoptable dogs and cats of all ages and sizes. They will be accepting adoption applications and upon approval, dogs and cats can go home with a new family the same day.
For more information about how you can participate in the ‘Day of Giving’, contact Kellie Schmidt at kschmidt@cullprop.com.
About East Court Village
East Court Village, located in Pekin, Illinois, is anchored by regional and national chains including Bergner’s, Hobby Lobby, Big Lots, DEB Shops, Rue 21, Applebee’s, Bob Evans, Tractor Supply Co., and Starbucks Coffee. East Court Village is owned and managed by Cullinan Properties, Ltd. Visit www.eastcourtvillage.com for more details.
About Cullinan Properties
Cullinan Properties, Ltd., with offices in Chicago, IL, Peoria, IL and St. Louis, MO, is a multi-disciplined real estate firm that develops, manages and owns mixed-use, retail, residential, office and medical properties throughout the United States. For additional information, visit www.cullinanproperties.com.