The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage, with its national supply dropping by about 35% in the past month as requests from hospitals outpace donations.
The organization is urging the public to immediately schedule appointments to donate, particularly those with Type O, A negative, and B negative blood.
High flu activity across the country and extreme winter weather, which canceled about 400 blood drives nationally last month, have hampered efforts to replenish the supply.
Donors can book an appointment 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 donate through Jan. 25 will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LX. Donors from Jan. 26 to Feb. 28 will receive a $20 e-gift card.
“Winter always puts pressure on the blood supply, and this year widespread flu and rough weather are making it even tougher,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of Red Cross donor services. “Every donation can be a lifeline for a patient who isn’t able to hold off on critical care.”
Patients relying on transfusions – including trauma victims, new mothers, and people with sickle cell disease or cancer – face a serious risk of delayed care without immediate action.
