An emergency appeal has gone out from Delta Blood Bank for blood and platelet donations.

“Right now, blood donations are being distributed to hospitals faster than donations are coming in,” said Gail McGovern, President and CEO of American Red Cross.

Blood donations through the Delta Blood Bank/American Red Cross have fallen short of hospital needs for the past few months, resulting in about 39,000 fewer donations nationwide than what’s needed, as well as a significant draw-down of the overall blood supply nationally and locally. The summer months are one of the most challenging times of the year to collect donations.

“We need to be able to support our own community and currently we are struggling to meet hospital demand,” said Annie Havens, Director of Marketing at Delta Blood Bank.

The need for blood remains constant and takes no holiday. Blood cannot be manufactured and must be donated by volunteers.

“We rely on you, and patients rely on you. Despite numerous public appeals, our inventory has not budged,” Havens added. “Units go out as quickly as they come in. Please be one of those blood or platelet donors we can count on to help us save lives.”

It takes less than an hour to donate a unit of blood that can save multiple lives. “Consider making blood donation part of your life. Make it a habit. Make it a mission. We do, and we need you,” Havens said.

Delta Blood Bank centers are at 2888 W. March Lane in Stockton and in Modesto at 1900 W. Orangeburg Ave.

For faster service, call (888) 942-5663 to make an appointment. Donors in July will receive a coupon for a pint of Baskin Robbins ice cream.

Delta Blood Bank is the leading supplier of blood in San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Calaveras counties. The non-profit organization has served the needs of the community for over 60 years and provides blood to 11 local hospitals.