American Red Cross Blood Supply Shrinks by Nearly 20% ~ Donors Needed

Just as most cars need to be refueled constantly, so does the nation’s blood supply. The American Red Cross has faced a concerning drop in blood and platelet donations this summer. 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. The availability of blood products will continue to decline if donations do not increase. 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.”

Donors can schedule an appointment to donate by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or by Clicking HERE.

As blood and platelet donations drop, gas prices have reached all-time highs in the U.S. As a thank-you, all blood donors who give from August 1st-31st will be automatically entered for a chance to win gas for a year; a $6,000 value. There will be three lucky winners. Everyone who comes to give blood or platelets in August will also receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice.* (*Terms apply. Visit rcblood.org/fuel for details.)