The American Red Cross continues to urge eligible members of the public to donate blood products as the U.S. continues to deal with a national blood shortage.
According to the Red Cross, the organization experienced a significant shortfall in blood and platelet donations in August, which followed a July that saw a near 25 percent drop in the blood supply. The Red Cross says it must collect 10,000 additional blood products each week over the next month In order to meet the needs of hospitals and patients.
Further strain on the blood supply comes from natural disasters including Hurricane Helene, ahead of which the Red Cross sent hundreds of blood products from around the country to areas that were expected to be the most impacted by the storm. This can create additional strain on areas impacted by the blood shortage.
Donors of all blood types are encouraged to schedule donations, especially Type O blood donors and donors giving platelets. As a thank you, all who donate from October 1 through 20 will receive a $15 Amazon.com gift card.
Learn more and schedule a donation appointment by visiting redcrossblood.org, by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor app, or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.
