The American Red Cross blood supply has reached emergency levels, prompting the agency to call on all eligible donors to give blood as soon as possible.
The Red Cross is on pace to receive 50,000 fewer donations than expected in June. The shortfall leaves the Red Cross with half of the readily available blood on hand than it had last year.
The unseasonably early start to spring may be a contributing factor to this year’s decline in donations. In addition, the mid-week Independence Day holiday has reduced the number of blood drives, according to the Red Cross.
Individuals who are 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate. All blood types are needed, especially O positive, O negative, B negative and A negative.
To schedule an appointment, call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) or visit http://www.redcrossblood.org.
