The American Red Cross has faced a “concerning” drop in blood and platelet donations this summer, according to the organization, and donors are needed to make an appointment to give in August to help prevent a blood shortage.
The decline in donations has caused the Red Cross blood supply to shrink nearly 20% in recent weeks.
Type O negative blood donors and platelet donors are especially needed now.
“This is a concerning trend that may soon make it tougher to keep blood products stocked on hospital shelves,” said Paul Sullivan, Red Cross senior vice president of donor services. “By choosing a time to give now, donors can help pump up the blood supply for those in immediate need of lifesaving care and those who rely on transfusions for treatment.”
In Morgan Hill, a blood drive is scheduled on Aug. 9 from 10am to 4pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Morgan Hill, 1790 E. Dunne Ave.
Donors can schedule an appointment to donate using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1.800.733.2767.
All who come to give will be automatically entered for a chance to win gas for a year. There will be three winners. Everyone who comes to give blood or platelets in August will also receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice.
