Washington, DC (JK) – The American Red Cross is urging people to donate blood after declaring an emergency blood shortage. The organization says the nation’s blood supply fell nearly 25% in June as donations dropped sharply following the end of May.
At the same time, hospitals are using about 3,500 more units of blood each week than expected during the busy summer trauma season, increasing pressure on the nation’s blood supply.
The greatest need is for platelet donations and donors with O positive and B negative blood types. Red Cross officials say blood cannot be stockpiled because it has a limited shelf life, making regular donations critical to meeting patient needs.
Eligible donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
As a thank-you, anyone who donates between July 13 and July 31 will receive a Fandango movie ticket by email, valued at up to $15.
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