As severe winter weather begins to clear and it is considered safe to travel, the American Red Cross is asking all eligible blood and platelet donors to make an appointment to donate and help replenish the blood supply.
The recent severe winter weather forced the cancellation of 30 Red Cross blood drives in the Greater Ozarks-Arkansas Blood Services Region, resulting in the shortfall of nearly 900 blood and platelet donations since Feb. 16.
“It is the blood products already on the shelves that help save lives when severe weather hits,” said Scott Caswell, CEO Greater Ozarks-Arkansas Blood Services Region. “The need for blood does not get a snow day. Thanks to generous Red Cross blood and platelet donors, blood products were available for patients who still needed transfusions despite the weather.”
Blood donors of all types – especially those with types O negative, B negative and A negative blood – and platelet donors are needed. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
