For only the second time in history, the American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis – and patients may already be feeling the impact. Donors are asked to act immediately to help save lives.
Blood donations have fallen to a four-year summer low, worsening this season’s emergency blood shortage. All blood types are needed, but the situation is especially dire for type O blood as the Red Cross is now limiting distributions of these blood products to hospitals. The supply of type O positive blood has now dropped below a one-day supply.
Past and potential donors are asked to help end this crisis and stabilize the blood supply. Book an appointment to give blood now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). As a thank-you, those who come to give any time during the month of August will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card by email. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/August.
Despite thousands of people who have stepped up to help end the emergency blood shortage since it was declared in July, donations are still not keeping pace with hospital demand, and the situation has escalated. Extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses continue to contribute to lower donor turnout this summer.
“This summer has brought a number of unique challenges that have placed additional strain on our blood supply, creating growing concerns for hospitals and the patients who rely on lifesaving transfusions,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of donor services for the Red Cross. “If just three more donors gave at each blood drive this summer, we could help the blood supply rebound and ensure hospitals have the blood products they need throughout the remainder of the season.”
Upcoming blood donation opportunities through Aug. 15 in the Heart of the Valley Chapter include:
San Joaquin County
Manteca – Aug. 10, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., VFW Veterans Center, 580 Moffat Boulevard.
Stockton – Multiple days and hours, North Stockton Blood Donation Center, 2888 West March Lane.
Stanislaus County
Modesto – Multiple days and hours, Modesto Blood Donation Center, 1900 W. Orangeburg Ave.
Oakdale – Aug. 13, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints Oakdale, 1111 E. A St.
Turlock – Multiple days and hours, Turlock Blood Donation Center, 655 E. Hawkeye.
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow them on social media.
