SLATER ENCOURAGES NEW YORKERS TO REGISTER AS ORGAN DONORS DURING DONATE LIFE MONTH
- kyra840
- Apr 8
- 2 min read
Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) joined colleagues from both the Majority and Minority Assembly conferences today at a press conference to recognize Donate Life Month and honor those who have saved lives through organ, eye and tissue donation.
More than 100,000 people nationwide are waiting for lifesaving organ transplants, with 7,917 New Yorkers on the transplant list. In 2024, more than 48,000 organ transplants from 24,000 donors gave new life to patients and their families. Despite these successes, the need remains urgent, with 377 New Yorkers dying last year while waiting for an organ transplant. One donor can save up to eight lives, restore sight to two people and heal the lives of 75 others. With more than 170 million registered donors nationwide, you can help close the gap by registering for the New York State Donate Life Registry. It’s quick, free and takes just minutes to offer someone a second chance at life.
“It’s incredible to see New Yorkers come together for a common cause—to help those in need of a lifesaving organ or tissue transplant. Donate Life has done amazing work in educating and advocating for this vital cause,” said Slater.
“While we’ve made progress in increasing donor registration in our state, the need remains critical. Too many New Yorkers are still waiting for life-saving transplants. I urge everyone who isn’t already registered to sign up and raise awareness within their own communities. This is a team effort, and I know the Hudson Valley is ready to step up and make a difference.”
During a recent visit to the Putnam County Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Assemblyman Slater joined State DMV Commissioner Mark Schroeder in praising the DMV’s efforts in partnership with Donate Life New York State to educate the public on the importance of organ donation. The Putnam County DMV has been recognized as a leader in donor registration, with 60% of residents signed up as organ donors.
“Putnam County is leading by example,” Slater continued. “Registering to become an organ donor is one of the simplest ways to make a lasting impact on someone’s life. I’m proud to work alongside leaders in our communities, like County Clerk Michael Bartolotti, who are helping to raise awareness and inspire others to join the Donate Life Registry.”
Putnam County Clerk Michael Bartolotti said, “As everyone knows, Donate Life is very near and dear to me. It’s an extremely important cause, and through your generous donation, you’re literally giving the gift of life to so many people. This is the month where we come together to raise awareness, particularly at the DMVs, where most organ donors in New York state are signed up.”
Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne said, “When Putnam County promotes organ donation, we’re reaching an audience that extends beyond just our voters. It’s wonderful that residents are participating, and we're doing our part to help raise the statewide average.”