The American Red Cross has announced an emergency need for blood amid the ongoing severe blood shortage. Blood donations continue to be critical to meet hospital demand and the public is urged to make an appointment to give now.
The Red Cross has been distributing about 12% more blood products to hospitals across the U.S. compared to this time last year, the organization noted in a release issued this week. The Red Cross needs to collect more than 1,000 additional blood donations each day to meet the current hospital demand and end the severe blood shortage. Donors of all blood types are needed, especially type O, which stands at just a one-day supply right now.
To thank donors who help ensure a strong blood supply in August, all who come to give Aug. 1-15, will automatically be entered for a chance to win an exclusive, VIP trip for two to the sold-out 2021 Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. Those who come to donate throughout August will also receive a free 4-month subscription offer to Apple Music by email (new subscribers only). More details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/FeelTheBeat
Donors who give now will help stock the shelves as we wind down the summer season. Schedule an appointment to give blood by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.
In most cases, those who have received a COVID-19 vaccine can donate. However, knowing the name of the manufacturer of the vaccine they received is important in determining donation eligibility.
Upcoming area blood donation opportunities:
• Ellinwood - 12:30-6:30 p.m. Aug. 6, St Joseph’s Parish Center, 110 W. 2nd St.
• Great Bend - 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 4, Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, 4801 10th St. and 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Aug. 10, American Legion, 1011 Kansas Avenue.
• Larned - noon-6 p.m. Aug. 13, Larned Community Center, 1500 Toles.
• LaCrosse - noon-6 p.m. Aug. 13, LaCrosse City Auditorium, 417 Main St.
