The Setauket Fire Department held its annual blood drive Monday at its Main Street station, where residents and volunteer firefighters came from all over Three Village to donate.
Although donations were down this year from previous years, spirits were still high.
"A little discomfort is worth saving a life," said donor Judy Larsen of East Setauket, who attended the blood drive with husband Ken.
"We have the backing of the community, even if they can't join the fire department. They support us on programs that we run," said Barbara Clute, who organized the blood drive.
Stony Brook resident Craig Dwyer, a New York City firefighter, signed up to donate.
"It's just to help people. You do what you can," he said.
Blood donor Scott Gressin, a lieutenant in the Setauket Fire Department, joked that he was just there for the free snacks. But then he got serious.
"I think it's great that the community has an opportunity to give back by giving blood," he said.
Joan Liang of the Long Island Blood Center, who ran Monday's drive at the fire house, said the need was particularly dire for O-, O+, and A+ type blood.
"We're very low on certain types," she said. "We're down to about a three day supply, so we need these types greatly."
If you missed Monday's blood drive but wish to donate, visit http://www.nybloodcenter.org/index.jsp to locate a nearby drive or set up an appointment at a local donation center.
